Gourmet News

IFT Offers Sneak Peek at Annual IFT FIRST

Published July 8, 2025

The Institute of Food Technologists, a nonprofit scientific organization committed to advancing the science of food and its application across the global food system, is proud to share a sneak peek at a few of the supplier scientific sessions and demonstrations that will take place at IFT FIRST: Annual Event and Expo, the popular food technology showcase being held July 13-16, 2025, at McCormick Place in Chicago. The centerpiece of the event is the food science and innovation expo featuring exhibitors from across the global food system sharing the latest in ingredients, equipment, processing, technology, safety, R&D, and packaging solutions.

This includes the Taste of Science stage where attendees can enjoy an array of ingredient samples, interactive demos, and product tastings; the Solutions Showcase stage where presenters dive into the challenges and opportunities in the science of food; as well as the Hot Topics Studio, which offers a more relaxed, informal atmosphere as top experts “chat” with attendees about important topics impacting the food industry today.

“One of the most exciting aspects of IFT FIRST is the opportunity it creates for attendees to explore the science and innovation behind some of the industry’s most forward-thinking products,” said Christie Tarantino-Dean, CEO, Institute of Food Technologists. “These demonstrations aren’t just about what’s new – they’re a springboard for bigger ideas, deeper connections, and opportunities to elevate product development and drive progress. IFT FIRST is where the future of food begins to take shape – it truly is Food Improved by Research, Science, and Technology.”

Here is a glimpse at some of the can’t-miss supplier sessions at IFT FIRST:

FoodChain ID: Automate Your Insights: Practical AI That Puts Knowledge to Work

Join a panel of food and beverage industry experts, including a digital transformation expert from FoodChain ID, to learn about a new innovative AI-powered formulation guidance tool at “Automate Your Insights: Practical AI That Puts Knowledge to Work” on Wednesday, July 16, from 11:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Discover how an embedded AI model is accelerating product development, reducing compliance risk and integrating institutional know-how, enabling teams to make confident decisions at speed. FoodChain ID Mentor turns SOPs, regulatory protocols, and organizational knowledge into real-time formulation advice. The AI innovation provides a practical approach to ensure that guidance is immediately applicable and beneficial for the day-to-day challenges faced by food and beverage product developers. By combining FoodChain ID’s deep industry expertise, expert-curated data and rulesets, and a company’s own criteria, FoodChain ID Mentor delivers highly actionable outcomes.

Infor: Closing the Value Gap with Technology in Food and Beverage Manufacturing

Infor, a global leader in industry-specialized business cloud software, is excited to announce its speaking session with Ruiz Foods at IFT FIRST on Monday, July 14, from 3:15 p.m. – 3:45 p.m. The session, titled “Closing the Value Gap with Technology in Food and Beverage Manufacturing,” will explore how top performing organizations tackle challenges like rising costs, regulatory pressures, and supply chain disruptions. Attendees will gain insights into the real-world application of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) and its crucial role in driving industry transformation. Discover how technology like PLM and AI identify growth opportunities, enhance business agility, and streamline processes to expedite market entry. Visit Infor at Booth S3858 and schedule a meeting for more information.

Ingredion: Solve the Texture Equation – Solutions That Drive Consumer Preference

Join Ingredion’s experts at IFT FIRST as they decode the Texture Equation, revealing how insights-driven expertise, technical mastery, and comprehensive solutions combine to create exceptional eating experiences. Discover how consumer and market trends are shaping the demand for products with superior texture and learn how these unique qualities can set products apart in the market. Ingredion experts will discuss how the right texture can enhance both the sensory experience and the functionality of food products.

POM Wonderful Specialty Ingredients: Fruit to Function: Enhancing Shelf Life, Sensory Quality, and Sustainability

Discover how pomegranate extract is reshaping food and beverage innovation at IFT FIRST in Chicago on July 14. This science-forward session explores its impact on flavor, nutrition, and sustainability. Chef Josh Park of Suji’s Korean Kitchen will share how Suji’s integrated POMxL extract into their popular 5-Spice Pork Bao Buns at Costco. Ideal for developers and R&D professionals, don’t miss this dynamic look at functional ingredients in action. To learn more, stop by Booth S1707 or go to https://specialtyingredients.pomwonderful.com.

Tate & Lyle: The Power of Stevia Reb M: Sweetness, Functionality, and a Resilient Supply Chain

Stevia Reb M is transforming beverage innovation by enabling sugar reduction without compromising on taste or mouthfeel. This Taste of Science Session explores how Tate & Lyle and Manus deliver an all-Americas supply of Stevia Reb M – ensuring reliable sourcing, consistent quality, and multifunctional performance. Attendees will gain insight into how Reb M enhances sweetness perception, supports clean-label claims, and meets sensory expectations in beverages. Technical aspects of formulation, regulatory labeling, and flavor optimization will be covered, along with strategies for maximizing functionality across product lines. As sugar reduction and supply chain stability remain top-of-mind, this session offers a forward-looking roadmap for crafting beverages that deliver both consumer appeal and operational resilience.

IFT FIRST unites top experts throughout the science of food disciplines. Through cutting-edge scientific programming and multi-disciplinary discussions, IFT FIRST addresses the biggest issues impacting the food industry across novel technology and innovation, health and nutrition, sustainability and climate, food safety, and consumer insights. The dynamic expo floor, a celebration of the latest food innovations and technologies, features some of the top food, health, and wellness companies in the world launching or showcasing the products and solutions that will help usher in a new era of food.

Register for IFT FIRST. IFT members receive special pricing on registration. To learn more, email membershipinfo@ift.org.

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Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Hormel Black Label Bacon Reunite

Published July 8, 2025

Bold taste meets breakfast tradition as Cinnamon Toast Crunch and Hormel Black Label bacon reunite for another irresistible collaboration: Cinnamon Toast Crunch Hormel Black Label Bacon Flavored Cereal. *

Following last year’s buzzworthy debut of the Hormel Black Label Cinnamon Toast Crunch Flavored Thick Cut Bacon, currently available at select retailers nationwide, this sizzling sequel is flipping the script at the breakfast table. Infused with the smoky flavor of Hormel Black Label Bacon and blasted with Cinnadust, this limited-edition cereal delivers savory satisfaction with every crunchy bite, making it perfect for breakfast or snacking.

“This collaboration is rewriting the rules of breakfast,” said Brandon Tyrrell, Senior Marketing Manager at General Mills. “Bringing these two iconic breakfast staples and irresistible flavors together gives our fans even more reasons why they Must Cinnadust.”

“After seeing the fan response to last year’s collaboration, we knew we had to bring these two breakfast icons back together,” said Aly Sill, Senior Brand Manager at Hormel Foods. “We’re shaking up the way bacon fits into daily routines, and we can’t wait for consumers to experience it.”

Each specially designed 6-ounce pouch is adorned with Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cinnaswirls and the inspired flavor of Hormel Black Label Bacon, uniting the signature branding of both household names for one unforgettable breakfast experience.

Starting Tuesday, July 8, fans can snag a pouch of Cinnamon Toast Crunch Hormel Black Label Bacon Flavored Cereal for $5.84, available exclusively at Walmart.com, while supplies last.

*Made with artificial bacon flavor

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Sweetgreen Launches Summer Seasonal Menu

Published July 8, 2025

This July, Sweetgreen invites guests to savor the season with the return of its Summer Seasonal Menu—a limited-time lineup that celebrates peak summer flavor and the farm partners who bring these ingredients to life. The Peach + Goat Cheese, Elote Bowl, and new Chicken Caprese launch nationwide on July 8, with early digital access available exclusively to SG Rewards members on July 7.

Rooted in close relationships with regional growers and guided by a chef’s touch, Sweetgreen’s Summer Seasonal Menu is a celebration of simplicity, seasonality, and peak flavor. Designed to showcase the best of what summer has to offer, the menu features juicy peaches, fresh tomatoes, smoky roasted vegetables, crisp greens, and creamy cheeses, sourced from trusted farms across the country.

Bringing Back the Best of Summer

This year’s lineup features the return of two of Sweetgreen’s most requested summer menu items, along with a new seasonal build. Each is inspired by the ingredients and flavors that define the season, offering a taste of summer in every bite.

Peach + Goat Cheese: Juicy summer peaches are lightly tossed with olive oil and fresh basil, then paired with creamy goat cheese, toasted almonds, and Sweetgreen’s signature balsamic vinaigrette. This light and vibrant combination brings together sweet, savory, and herby notes in a nostalgic favorite.
Elote Bowl: A bold mix of smoky roasted corn and peppers, juicy summer tomatoes drizzled with olive oil, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips—brought together with a zesty lime cilantro jalapeño vinaigrette. A vibrant celebration of peak summer flavor.
New! Chicken Caprese: Sweetgreen’s take on the timeless Italian favorite. Juicy roasted chicken, fresh pesto pearl mozzarella, and vine-ripened summer tomatoes come together with crisp greens and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. It’s rich, refreshing, and made for sunny days.

“At Sweetgreen, we believe the best food starts with the best ingredients, and summer is a perfect time to celebrate that,” said Nicolas Jammet, co-founder and Chief Concept Officer of Sweetgreen. “This seasonal menu is the result of our deep-rooted partnerships with trusted farmers, and we’re thrilled to bring our guests food that not only tastes delicious, but also honors the people who grow it.”

Farm-Forward Flavor, Sourced With Intention

Staying true to its commitment to intentional sourcing, Sweetgreen continues to partner with growers who share its passion for quality, sustainability, and seasonality. This summer, fresh peaches are featured on menus nationwide, with Sweetgreen’s California restaurants proudly sourcing theirs from Frog Hollow Farm in Brentwood, CA—a longtime partner known for growing some of the country’s most flavorful stone fruit. Since 2021, Sweetgreen has sourced over 33,000 lbs of Frog Hollow peaches to bring their unmatched flavor to guests across the state.

“We’re thrilled to continue our partnership with Sweetgreen for the Peach + Goat Cheese on the summer menu. Their commitment to sourcing directly from farms like ours, where soil health, flavor, and sustainability are foundational, helps tell a deeper story about what good food really means,” said Lael Gerhart, Director of Engagement at Frog Hollow Farm. “When guests enjoy our organic peaches, they’re also supporting our regenerative farming practices that prioritize human and planetary health. Sweetgreen is helping demonstrate what truly responsible, nourishing food at scale can look like—and we’re proud to be part of that vision.”

Each item on the menu reflects Sweetgreen’s long-standing dedication to working with farms that prioritize thoughtful growing practices and deep care for the food they cultivate. The Summer Seasonal Menu pairs culinary creativity with meaningful sourcing, with many locations featuring summer tomatoes from Lady Moon Farms, corn from Ray’s Heritage Farm, bell peppers from Lipman Family Farms, and/or pearl mozzarella from BelGioioso.

Early Access & Seasonal Perks for Sweetgreen Rewards Members

SG Rewards members will receive exclusive early digital access to the Summer Seasonal Menu starting Monday, July 7, through the Sweetgreen app and website. Members also unlock ongoing benefits and a sneak preview of new menu items.

To celebrate the return of its seasonal lineup, Sweetgreen will be popping up this summer with exclusive partnerships, local activations, and surprise-and-delight moments that are available first to SG Rewards members in select cities. From tasting events to limited-edition collabs, it’s Sweetgreen’s way of bringing the season to life beyond the hex bowl.

Signing up is fast, free, and available now through the Sweetgreen app. To stay on top of Sweetgreen news, visit www.sweetgreen.com, and follow along @Sweetgreen on social media.

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