About IFST

IFST | Inspiring excellence and trust in food

We are the UK’s leading professional body for those involved in all aspects of food science and technology. We are an internationally respected independent membership body, supporting food professionals through knowledge sharing and professional recognition.

Our membership comprises individuals from a wide range of backgrounds, from students to experts, working across a wide range of disciplines within the sector.

We are a registered charity (no 1121681) and a company limited by guarantee (no 930776).

Charitable Object

The object for which we are established is the general advancement and application of food science and technology for the benefit, safety and health of the public.

Our Mission

To recognise and empower food professionals by promoting excellence in science and its application throughout the food chain.

Our Vision

To be respected by and engaged with our relevant stakeholder communities as the UK’s leading food science & technology professional body.

Our Values 

Evidence-based

All that we do and deliver is based on evidence. This fundamental principle lies at the very core of IFST’s consciousness. We provide scientific evidence that the public, policymakers and our members can trust and use.
 

Professional

We aim to be a repository of professionalism in our field of food science and technology and to ensure our profession serves the public. We demand and expect professionalism from our members whether drawn from academia, industry or the public sector.

Innovative

Food science and technology is, by nature dynamic and innovative. Whilst a serious subject and with serious implications, it is exciting and fun. We will seek to reflect this dynamism in the way we work and communicate with others. We will therefore be responsive to the constantly changing environment in which we work and to the needs of our members and stakeholders. 

Independent

Our independent position and voice is critical and is what we are valued and respected for. We will ensure our governance, agendas and outputs are based on the best and most complete evidence available and, in gathering this evidence, we will not be unduly influenced by any single views or commercial pressures. We will build trust by being open about all our decision-making processes.

Food science community

We value our members as a community of food scientists and technologists. We respect and value the diversity of our membership and all that this diversity brings. We seek to learn from each other and always encourage a friendly, approachable, inclusive and supportive spirit from all who work for and with us.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Statement

The Institute of Food Science and Technology (IFST) recognises that diversity is not only a moral imperative but also a catalyst for innovation and excellence in scientific endeavours. We recognise the importance and benefits of equal opportunities, diversity, inclusion and eliminating discrimination in every aspect of our work. By embracing diverse perspectives, experiences, and talents, IFST aims to drive positive change and advance the field of food science for the benefit of society.
We aim to ensure that no individual or group is treated more or less favourably than others on grounds of sex, gender identity, age, marital status, disability, race, ethnic origin, nationality, sexual orientation, pregnancy, maternity/paternity or religion.
We work to comply with all the legislation related to equal opportunities to ensure that the culture, philosophy and processes within IFST are free from bias of any kind.

Strategic Priorities

To achieve our vision, we will focus on the following six strategic priorities:

Priority 1 – Science and Technology Knowledge

Providing and sharing scientific and evidence-based knowledge. 

Priority 2 – Leadership

Positively inform and support all our stakeholders by providing insight and knowledge of the food system. 

Priority 3 – Recognition and Standards

Setting and promoting professional standards for scientific and technical professionals working in the food system. 

Priority 4 – Community

Continue to build a welcoming and inclusive community for all STEM-minded individuals in the food system.

Priority 5 – Future Talent 

Encouraging and supporting our future talent.

Priority 6 - Informing the Public

Promoting an understanding of the food system.