Registration is now open for Food Improved by Research, Science, and Technology 
(FIRST), a new digital experience powered by the Institute of Food 
Technologists (IFT) ( 
https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&l=en&o=3142215-1&h=88547206&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ift.org%2F&a=Institute+of+Food+Technologists 
). Programming and presentations will take place virtually from July 19-21, 
2021 while the Solution Exchange will be offered from July 19-23, 2021. 

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/627102/IFT_logo.jpg  

Trained chef, television personality, and author Carla Hall will serve as host 
for the three-day event. Keynote speakers are Ambassador Ertharin Cousin, 
Founder and CEO of Food Systems for the Future and Dr. Lisa Dyson, Founder & 
CEO of Air Protein. Claire Schlemme, Founder and CEO of Renewal Mill and winner 
of IFT's inaugural IFTNEXT Food Disruption Challenge pitch event, will host 
this year's IFTNEXT Food Disruption Challenge. 

"As a science of food and innovation community, IFT is uniquely positioned to 
convene global experts, entrepreneurs, and solution providers to collectively 
discuss and ignite new and innovative ways to solve our greatest food-related 
challenges," said IFT CEO Christie-Tarantino Dean. "While we can't be 
physically together, IFT is excited to launch FIRST and provide attendees with 
a personalized, solution-packed forum to solve problems, share knowledge, and 
expand strategic connections."

New this year, FIRST will feature a robust matchmaking program called FIRST 
Solution Exchange, which will offer customized supplier recommendations, curate 
one-on-one meetings, and feature interactive showrooms. Extending this 
experience will be Solution Suites, a comprehensive virtual marketplace where 
participants can peruse supplier showrooms to learn and engage with experts 
about the latest products and services. 

Other key aspects of the digital experience include: 

    -- Curated Scientific Program: The scientific programming will focus
       on answering the question "Zero Hunger: Will we get there?" 
       Sessions will feature the latest insights, research, and industry 
       solutions aimed at addressing the global hunger crisis. 

    -- Supplier Showcase: Attendees will gain insights into emerging
       trends, access valuable business resources, and make strategic
       connections through interactive and on-demand presentations and
       showcases from suppliers, all designed to further career and
       business opportunities. 

    -- Startup Central: Innovative startup companies from around the globe
       will showcase their products and services as part of Startup Central.
       Startup programming and networking opportunities will also be offered
       for anyone interested in furthering their food science and business
       acumen and expanding their professional ecosystem.

To learn more and register, please visit iftevent.org ( 
https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&l=en&o=3142215-1&h=2436509456&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.iftevent.org%2F&a=iftevent.org 
). 

About IFT
The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) is a global organization of 
approximately 12,000 individual members from 95 countries committed to 
advancing the science of food. Since 1939, IFT has brought together the 
brightest minds in food science, technology and related professions from 
academia, government, and industry to solve the world's greatest food 
challenges. Our organization works to ensure that our members have the 
resources they need to learn, grow, and advance the science of food as the 
population and the world evolve. We believe that science is essential to 
ensuring a global food supply that is sustainable, safe, nutritious, and 
accessible to all. For more information, please visit ift.org.

SOURCE  Institute of Food Technologists

CONTACT: Jennifer Garcia, jgarcia@ift.org