7 Celebrations in Food Packaging Science

Many conferences showcase packaging. But few focus on the packaging science that meets the needs of the food industry.

IFTfirst does. IFTfirst means Food Improved by Research, Science, and Technology. The 2024 event took place mid-July in Chicago. The energy level was high with a focus on future-proofing innovation required to meet the current crisis in the food industry. The food industry is under pressure to provide products that fulfill the health-related needs of an increasingly diverse and economically diverse population by using sustainable products, processing, and packaging.

IFT featured a Food Expo and the entire Science FIRST program, including individual sessions, Scientific Panels, Keynotes, Featured Sessions, Posters and Research Showcase Presentations; and unique experiences like Business FIRST, Fireside Chats, Braindates, the Startup Pavilion, and more.

This slideshow delves into the packaging science news I saw there, covering everything from student and company food packaging award winners to the science of food packaging to the elegance of packaging.