The D.C. Section of Institute of Food Technologists (DC-IFT) is hosting “Food Policy Impact 2025,” a two-day event that will dive into the future of food policies and their impact on food, nutrition, and health. The event is designed for policy makers, industry professionals, and anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the impact modern food policies are having on the world of food and nutrition. It will be held April 29–30, 2025, at Arent Fox LLP in Washington, D.C.

Representatives from federal regulatory agencies, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), will provide updates on policy priorities, including the implications of the “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) movement. Panel sessions will highlight hot topics in the food sector, from ultra-processed foods to state and federal actions on food additives.

The first day will include the Keynote, titled, “Communicating Science Amongst Controversy and Misinformation,” presented by Laura Lindenfeld, Ph.D., Dean of the School of Communication and Journalism at Stony Brook University, which will be followed by updates on government activities from federal regulators. The day will conclude with an update on 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans as well as a Congressional Update on MAHA Caucus and Farm Bill activities.

On the second day, D.C. food policy insider Helena Bottemiller Evich of Food Fix will host a session, titled, “Future Directions in Food.” The day will also involve multiple panel discussions on a range of topics, including:

• Alcohol, drugs, and ultra-processed foods: Understanding the drivers of desire, intake, and “addiction”
• State vs. federal activity under the Trump Administration on food colors, sweeteners, and additives: What’s next?
• Tariffs, trade, and immigration—Impacts on food and agriculture
• Understanding Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) restrictions

General admission tickets to the event are $225. The cost is $75 for IFT student members. Space is limited. Register here.