About Our Section
Rocky Mountain IFT is a section of the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT). We connect food industry professionals across Colorado & Wyoming with valuable career networking and hands-on involvement in the community of food technology and food innovation.
RMIFT provides scholarships & grants to students, funded by sponsorships from leading food industry companies.
We’re always seeking volunteers and participants!
Meet Our Board
President
Kelley Putt
Treasurer
Michael Gabel
Secretary & Communications
Laura Richards
Student Relations & Scholarship Coordinator
Ann Schimschal
Event Coordinator
Caitlin Kalogeras
Golf Outing Lead
Joe Boehrer
Director at Large
Sandy Baack
Director at Large
Mary Mulry PhD
"We believe there is more to the food community than just food."
The food technology community encompasses a range of sectors focused on improving food production, processing, packaging, and safety.
5 Key Sectors:
Food Processing
This sector involves transforming raw ingredients into finished products. Techniques include milling, cooking, and preservation, which enhance shelf life and safety. Innovations in processing technology, such as high-pressure processing and enzymatic treatments, have improved food quality and nutritional value.
Food Packaging
Packaging technology plays a crucial role in protecting food from contamination and spoilage. Advances in materials (like biodegradable plastics and vacuum sealing) and smart packaging (which can monitor freshness) are enhancing the safety and convenience of food products.
Food Production
This sector includes agriculture, aquaculture, and livestock management. Innovations such as precision farming, vertical farming, and lab-grown meats are optimizing resource use, increasing yields, and reducing environmental impact.
Food Safety
& Quality Control
Ensuring food safety through rigorous testing and monitoring is critical. Technologies like blockchain for traceability and advanced analytics for quality control help in maintaining high safety standards.
Food Distribution
The logistics of getting food from producers to consumers are also evolving. Automated warehouses, real-time tracking, and improved transportation methods are streamlining supply chains.
Benefits of Food Technology
- Advancements in food technology deliver major benefits, including:
- Increased Efficiency: Production & processing methods which reduce waste & lower cost.
- Improved Food Safety: Advanced monitoring and packaging that minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses.
- Sustainability: Innovations that reduce environmental impact and conserve resources.
- Enhanced Nutritional Value: Techniques that preserve or boost the nutritional quality of foods.
- Convenience: Smart packaging and products designed for modern, on-the-go lifestyles.