Key Takeaways from IFT First 2024

The Institute of Food Technologists recently hosted the IFT FIRST 2024 Expo, which brought a throng of food scientists, nutritionists, and product developers from around the world to Chicago.

Who Was There?

 There were a fair number of new attendees and 20% of the exhibitors were first-timers. The attendance was robust, but as usual, there were more exhibitors than attendees. 

Reformulation/Optimization vs. New Product Introduction

Per Mintel, this past year saw a meager number of new product introductions. The general theme was “Don’t fix what isn’t broken”. Transitioning from light to darker color liquid sugar gained a lot of interest from R&D folks who want to reduce costs and improve the sustainability profile of their products.

Ethical: The New Buzzword

This was mentioned numerous times in presentations and conversations. Companies want to be sure they are working with ‘ethical’ people and companies. Sugaright is proud of our engagement with Bonsucro and Fairtrade-certified suppliers to offer an ethical sugar solution to the food industry.

Mind Blowing Options for Sugar Reduction

 The show demonstrated that there isn’t one specific elixir for sugar reduction. There was an overwhelming number of alternatives, with complicated label and cost implications with little understanding of health consequences. Sugaright continues to promote responsible indulgence of the real stuff.

Functional Food

Consumers are looking for increased functionality from their food. They want something with a healthy consequence, but they want it natural, sweet, and delicious.

The Non-Negotiables: Service & Quality

A 20 x 20 booth doesn’t buy you trust from your customers, industrial customers want to work with people that they trust for service, quality & cost. Many of our customers just stopped by to say “Thanks for being there; you guys make my job easier”.

Climate Risk

Climate change is real, and two evenings of unprecedented weather and tornado warnings in the Chicago area reminded us that our sugar supply solutions must be flexible, reliable and environmentally friendly.

Sugaright strives to be the liquid sugar supplier of choice by responding to customers' needs and to offer innovative solutions for the future.

Questions? Please contact us.