USA – The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) has launched CoDeveloper, an AI-powered research and development platform designed to accelerate food product formulation and support developers in overcoming technical challenges.
Developed by IFT’s team of food scientists, the proprietary tool integrates the organization’s more than 85 years of peer-reviewed research and published content into the product development process.
Announced ahead of IFT FIRST, the organization’s annual food research, science, and technology event in Chicago, CoDeveloper combines advanced formulation tools with a generative AI co-scientist named Sous.
According to IFT, these features are intended to enhance iterative development and enable science-optimized reverse engineering, while enterprise-grade security ensures proprietary data remains protected.
AI integration in food product development
IFT CEO Christie Tarantino-Dean stated that CoDeveloper is a direct response to the changing needs of the global food system.
“With more than eight decades of supporting scientific leadership and a global community of experts behind us, CoDeveloper is our bold response to the urgent need for smarter, faster R&D tools, and it reflects our commitment to shaping the future of food through trusted science and information,” she said.
The new platform will be demonstrated during IFT FIRST, which runs from July 12–16. The event attracts academic, government, and industry leaders to discuss current issues in food science, technology, health, and safety.
This year’s sessions will cover topics such as artificial intelligence, food additives, GLP-1 agonists, salt and sugar reduction, and sustainable packaging. Speakers will include leaders from companies such as PepsiCo, Kraft Heinz, WK Kellogg Co., and Mars, Inc.
Platform features and security
In addition to Sous, CoDeveloper includes advanced formulation tools that support users in developing market-competitive products.
The reverse engineering functionality is designed to facilitate science-optimized redevelopment of existing formulas. Enterprise-grade security measures have been integrated to ensure that user data remains protected while connected to IFT’s research resources.
Established in 1939, IFT is a nonprofit scientific organization representing food science, food technology, and related professionals across academia, government, and industry.
The organization focuses on advancing science and its application to support a global food supply that is sustainable, safe, nutritious, and accessible.