The Iowa Section
The Iowa Section of the Institute of Food Technologists (IAIFT), a regional section of the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) was first organized in 1947. The section charter was dated June 6, 1948. We are proud to be 75+ years strong.
Our section spans the state of Iowa, with both students, particularly Iowa State University Food Science and Human Nutrition students, and professional members. We host four meetings annually for members to come together to learn and network.
Iowa IFT’s mission is to connect, develop, and educate with the Iowa food science community. We do this through a focus on three key pillars: networking, professional development and education.
Connect: Networking
IAIFT strives to connect industry professionals and students across Iowa and beyond. Our meetings bring our members together from across the state to build the Iowa food science community. Meeting locations move around the state and some are virtual. Past events include company plant tours, talks, tastings, dinners, trivia and socials to get to know our peers.
Develop: Professional Development
Whether you are a student or an experienced industry professional, there is always cutting-edge science to learn or new trends to discover. IAIFT offers leadership opportunities on our IAIFT executive board to develop soft skills including two student board positions from the Iowa State Food Science club. Recently the Section hosted a professional development book club discussing the New York Times Best Seller, “Atomic Habits: by James Clear.
Educate: Supporting Students and Embracing Lifelong Learning
IAIFT believes in supporting our university food science and culinary science students by fostering a close relationship with the Food Science Club at Iowa State, subsidizing student meeting registrations, and offering scholarships in conjunction with food companies located in Iowa. Lifelong learning is required in food science with the ever-changing regulatory environment, the needs and desires of customers, health needs, and science. The Section embraces continuing education by hosting meetings with companies tours and speakers covering a wide range of topics in the industry.
IFT
Since 1939, the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) has been a forum for passionate science of food professionals and technologists to collaborate, learn, and contribute all with the goal of inspiring and transforming collective scientific knowledge into innovative solutions for the benefit of all people around the world. As a scientific community grounded in purpose, IFT feeds the minds that feed the world.
IFT’s Mission
A world where science and innovation are connected and universally accepted as essential to improving food for everyone
IFT’s Vision
Connecting global food system communities to promote and advance the science of food and its application.
IFT’s Values
Community, Integrity, Passion, Progress, Respect, Inclusion
Iowa Section IFT 