“TO FULFILL HUMAN NEEDS FOR A QUALITY FOOD SUPPLY THROUGH SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND EDUCATION.“

This is the mission of the Southern California Institute of Food Technologists Section, and of its members. In keeping with this mission, SCIFTS is proud to bring you the latest advance in OUR journey toward its fulfillment.

July 12-15, 2026

McCormick Place Convention Center
2301 S. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (MLK) Drive
Chicago, IL 60616

IFT FIRST (Food Improved by Research, Science, and Technology) brings together the entire food ecosystem—from farm to fork, research lab to retail shelf. As the leading food science and innovation expo, IFT FIRST offers solutions across every challenge: sustainability, food safety, ingredient innovation, supply chain optimization, and more.

This is one event you can’t afford to miss.

Be Part of the Solutions and Conversations

At IFT FIRST, advocacy for science, innovation and the power of collaboration take center stage. It’s where science meets practical application. With 1,000+ exhibitors showcasing game-changing products and technologies, you’ll find solutions to your business challenges while connecting with the brightest minds in food science.

Be part of the solutions and conversations helping shape the future of food—this is where it happens

Click here to register

MEMBERSHIP:

The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), the national organization, was founded in 1939 as a non-profit society. Today, this proactive scientific and educational organization has over 13,000 members working in food science, technology, nutrition and related professions in industry, academia and government. As the authoritative voice of food science and technology, IFT brings sound science to the public discussion of food issues.

The Southern California Institute of Food Technologists (SCIFTS) is one of the largest sections of the international society of professional food personnel involved or interested in any of the various aspects of the field of food.

Whether you are a food technologist, researcher, scientist, engineer, executive, administrator, educator, author, marketer, consultant, student, or salesperson, there is a place for you in this multi-faceted organization.

Become a Member

SUBSCRIBER:

If you are not a member of IFT, but wish to receive the SCIFTS Newsletter, purchase an annual subscription. and receive the 10 issue annual newsletter.

Subscription Costs:

  • $ 25.00 – Regular subscription
  • $ 20.00 – Senior subscription (65+ years old)
  • $ 15.00 – Student subscription

Subscribers will also receive special pricing at local SCIFTS events.

Dinner Meetings:

Non-Member Dinner Price is $50.00*

Subscribers will receive a discount on the Non-Member Dinner Meeting price as follows:

  • Regular – discount of $10.00 (Subscriber price $40.00*)
  • Senior 65+ – discount of $25.00 (Subscriber price $25.00*)
  • Student – discount of $25.00 (Subscriber price $25.00*)

*$5.00 Discount with Cash/Check Payment at Door

Become a Subscriber