The Australian Institute of Food Science and Technology’s flagship annual convention, AIFST26, will run concurrently with foodpro 2026 on 27-28 July at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre.
The co-location of AIFST26 with foodpro creates a valuable opportunity for food science and technology professionals, researchers, regulators, manufacturers, students and industry leaders to connect with Australia’s broader food manufacturing, processing and packaging community.
By registering for AIFST26, delegates can access the full convention program and register free of charge for foodpro, giving them the opportunity to visit both events. Together, this provides an expanded platform for learning, networking and exploring the latest technologies, services and solutions across the food and beverage value chain.
With the theme Grow, Learn, Connect and Champion, AIFST26 will bring together more than 50 speakers across two days of plenary and concurrent sessions.
Key focus areas include food safety, advances in health and nutrition, sensory and consumer science, advanced processing, education, food policy and regulation, innovation and sustainability.
AIFST CEO, Fiona Fleming, says AIFST26 comes at an important time for the sector.
“Food science and technology has never been more important. The industry is navigating complex challenges, from food safety, sustainability and workforce capability to innovation, nutrition, regulation and changing consumer expectations,” Fleming says.
“AIFST26 provides an essential platform for the food science and technology community to come together, share expertise, explore emerging science and technologies, and strengthen the connections that will help shape the future of food.
“The co-location with foodpro adds another valuable dimension, giving delegates access to the broader manufacturing, processing and packaging environment and creating more opportunities for collaboration across the full food and beverage value chain.”
A highlight of this year’s program will be the prestigious JR Vickery Address, presented by University of Melbourne professor in Food Science, Ling Zhi Cheong.
Cheong’s keynote, Building the Future of Food by Bridging Tradition and Innovation, will explore how food science can help address major challenges facing future food systems, from climate change and resource limitations to population growth and evolving consumer expectations.
Cheong will examine how traditional food production knowledge and cultural food practices can be integrated with emerging technologies, including advanced processing, biomanufacturing, artificial intelligence and precision nutrition.
Through examples spanning sustainable ingredients, circular bioeconomy and health-focused food design, she will highlight the critical role of interdisciplinary collaboration and industry engagement in creating resilient, nutritious and sustainable foods for future generations.
The keynote program will also feature food futurist, food scientist, author, and strategic foresight consultant, Tony Hunter. His keynote, Gen Alpha Rising: The Born Digital, AI Powered Consumer of the Future, will explore how Generation Alpha is already influencing food consumption and how this generation will help shape the future of food for decades to come.
With two billion members, Generation Alpha is the largest generation the planet has ever seen. Tony will explore what happens when generative AI meets Generation Alpha, and what this means for food innovation, consumer expectations and the future of the food, beverage and agriculture industries.
AIFST26 attendees can expect a comprehensive technical program, expert speakers, panel discussions, networking opportunities and access to the broader foodpro exhibition environment.
Key benefits of attending AIFST26 include staying up to date with the latest trends, research and innovations; opportunities to collaborate across academia, research and industry; deeper understanding of emerging industry trends and market shifts; networking with sector leaders and like-minded professionals; and Continuing Professional Development points for AIFST members.
Whether you are early in your career, established in your field or looking to explore new opportunities, AIFST26 provides valuable opportunities for learning, networking and professional growth.
AIFST26 will be held from 27–28 July 2026 at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, co-located with foodpro 2026. For more information and to register, visit aifst.asn.au/AIFST-2026.
This article first appeared in the Q2 2026 edition of Food & Drink Business magazine.
