As part of the “IFT 2024 First Annual Event and Exhibition”, the President’s Reception of the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) was held, where the IFT had a prominent presence along with members of the IFT Mexico Chapter.
Current IFT President Sean Layton presided over the reception, which brought together board members, strategic allies, industry leaders and the organization’s staff in Chicago, USA.
The reception was part of the annual conference activities and was held in an intimate atmosphere with a small cocktail.
The Food Tech’s presence at this exclusive meeting reflects the importance of collaboration between the various players in the food sector and reaffirms the synergy with one of the greatest advocates of food science and innovation, IFT.
Participating in international events positions Food Tech as a relevant player in the global food innovation and technology landscape, strengthening its presence and connections in the sector.
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IFT Leadership with Sean Layton at the helm
Sean Layton, who heads the nonprofit organization committed to advancing food science and its application in the global food system, has more than 20 years of dedication to the food safety and quality sector.
Since 1999 I have been part of IFT; participating in the Product Development Competition organized by the IFT Student Association (IFTSA).
He has also served in a variety of volunteer roles as a presenter, panelist, and thought leader for podcasts, as well as an advisory board member for the IFT Global Food Traceability Center.
Prior to joining Cargill in 2017, Layton served as vice president of quality assurance, people safety and environmental sustainability at The Coca-Cola Company, where he spent 12 years in roles of increasing responsibility. Prior to that, he worked at Land O’Lakes Inc.
From July 14-17, the annual IFT FIRST event and exhibition will be held in Chicago under the theme “Collaboration + Innovation: How Can Food Science and Technology Transform the Food System?”
In this context, specialists present the latest innovations in the global food industry, with a special focus on promising applications of artificial intelligence in this sector.
The assembled experts analyze topics critical to the future of global food such as consumer-focused developments and emerging global trends.
Talks will also revolve around digital transformation and its disruptive impact on the food supply chain; the role of food as preventive and curative medicine, as well as innovations in sustainability and food safety.
These issues reflect the current concerns of the industry, but at the same time they define the direction the industry will follow in the short and medium term.
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