IFT FIRST Annual Event & Expo 2026

RTI's team will be participating in the IFT FIRST Annual Event & Expo, the leading global forum for food science and innovation. This engaging event brings together researchers, industry leaders, and solution providers from across the food system to explore emerging technologies, scientific advances, and real-world applications that are shaping the future of food. RTI experts will be onsite to connect with partners and share insights on advancing food innovation, nutrition, and sustainable systems.

With scientific programming integrated directly into the expo floor, IFT FIRST offers a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research and immediately connect it to practical innovations—creating a dynamic setting for collaboration, from signal to shelf. 

Visit RTI at booth #3277 to learn more about our latest research and solutions!

Hear Our Experts at IFT First

Can Food Labels Influence Purchase Decisions for Consumers Who Are Limiting Their UPF Consumption? 
Monday, July 13, 11:40-12:00 PM 
Expo Hall A: Science LIVE Stage 3 
Featuring Annice Kim, RTI's Senior Director, Center for Media Impact and Consumer Behavior Research, this presentation will highlight findings from a synthesis of the existing literature and social media listening insights on consumer response to established and emerging food labels. These findings can help inform the labeling of new and reformulated products in response to consumer concerns about ultra-processed foods.

How Are Emerging AI Tools Transforming Food Innovation End-to-End, From Consumer Understanding to Scaled Innovation?
Tuesday, July 14, 10:00-10:45 AM 
Expo Hall A: Science LIVE Stage 4
Featuring Jacob Smith, RTI Innovation Advisor, this Scientific & Technical Forum examines how emerging AI tools are being applied end to end, from early consumer understanding through product development and commercialization. Panelists will discuss how different forms of AI, including machine learning and generative approaches, are shaping innovation workflows while highlighting where adoption is accelerating and where challenges remain.