Newswise — CHICAGO—Registration is now open for IFT16: Where Science Feeds Innovation in Chicago, July 16-19 at McCormick Place. Hosted by the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), this annual event brings food science and technology thought leaders from more than 90 countries representing the most prominent organizations in the global food sector.

This is the only annual event that brings together the brightest minds and the most respected food professionals from around the world — in industry, government, and academia — for knowledge exchange, networking, and problem solving. From trendsetters in product development to senior-level executives from the world’s top food companies to department heads from leading universities, everyone will be at IFT16.

Attendees can experience the event in a variety of ways, which include:

- Innovation Zone – Gain inspiration for product development initiatives- On Trend Exhibit – View the newest product innovations featured at the expo- 1,000+ Exhibitors – Connect with companies at the forefront of innovation- Product Competitions – See the solutions that bright young minds are creating- 100+ Sessions – Participate in peer-reviewed scientific and applied sessions- ePoster Presentations – Get a 10-minute deep-dive into new research- Pop-up Sessions – Join peers for an opportunity to continue the conversation- New Exhibitors Pavilion – Explore companies new to the IFT expo

Featured Sessions will explore today’s public perceptions and misconceptions toward food and science. Jacques Rousseau, professor and chair of the Academic Freedom Committee at the University of Cape Town and founder and chairperson of the Free Society Institute will share his perspective on the reasons why people fear innovation and how to better equip consumers with the scientific knowledge and resources to assist them in making more informed decisions. Additionally, Bev Postma, PhD, an international policy specialist and Executive Director of Food Industry Asia will discuss the rise of the “pseudoscientist” in a world of digital media and its larger cultural implications. Another session will feature doctor, epidemiologist, and author of the bestselling book, Bad Science, Ben Goldacre who will show the ways in which evidence can be distorted.

To see even more of what will go on at IFT16, check out this video.

Food professionals wishing to attend IFT16 can register online at http://www.am-fe.ift.org/cms/?pid=1001037. Those who register by June 3, 2016 will save up to $150. Those who are currently not IFT members can easily join when they register and save up to $240 of the cost of registration.

Members of the media who would like to attend, please view the media eligibility requirements, and then contact Emily Behn, IFT Media Relations Specialist at [email protected] or Mindy Weinstein, Director of Media Relations at [email protected].

About IFTFounded in 1939, the Institute of Food Technologists is committed to advancing the science of food. Our non-profit scientific society—more than 17,000 members from more than 95 countries—brings together food scientists, technologists and related professionals from academia, government, and industry. For more information, please visit ift.org.