IFFA 2025 in Frankfurt presents over 1,000 exhibitors from 52 countries - with a focus on digitalisation, sustainable packaging and the integration of alternative protein sources in industrial processing.
From 3 to 8 May 2025, the Frankfurt exhibition grounds will once again be the international meeting place for meat and protein processing. Under the theme „Rethinking meat and proteins“, 1,019 exhibitors from 52 countries will present solutions along the entire value chain - from processing and packaging to sales. Around 27 per cent of the companies are represented at the trade fair for the first time, including many start-ups from the field of alternative proteins.
The new „IFFA Worlds“ hall structure makes orientation easier and brings together exhibitors on the topics of Processing, Packaging, Ingredients, New Proteins and Craft & Sales.
Artificial intelligence is changing meat processing
The use of artificial intelligence is a key topic for the future. AI-based image recognition for the automated sorting of meat and real-time data analyses for condition monitoring and predictive maintenance enable more efficient and sustainable production processes. Packaging technologies also benefit from this development - for example through automated quality assurance and data-driven line optimisation.
„IFFA is the most important platform for innovations and a catalyst for investment. According to a VDMA economic survey conducted in April, 55 per cent of companies in the sector expect an increase in turnover in 2025 and a further 40 per cent expect stable business development. In the context of the current difficult conditions, this is a very positive result and also implies that companies have high expectations of IFFA. The measures planned by the new German government to ease the burden on companies and reduce bureaucracy are also contributing to the positive mood. The rapid implementation of the new depreciation regulation would be an important signal and a strong incentive to invest.“
Richard Clemens, Managing Director of the VDMA Food Processing and Packaging Machinery Association
Focus on packaging: recyclable, material-efficient, automated
In terms of packaging technology, the focus is on material-efficient and recyclable solutions that can also be processed on existing machines. The pressure on manufacturers is increasing: regulations, such as labelling requirements or new EU packaging regulations (PPWR), are forcing the transformation towards recyclable packaging materials.
Automation and robotics are helping to compensate for the shortage of skilled labour - both in meat processing and in packaging and logistics. Innovations such as paper-based MAP solutions, monostructures made of PP or PET and intelligent packaging with a barrier function and digital features will be on show in Frankfurt.
Alternative proteins and new product concepts
Another focus is on alternative protein sources. IFFA is increasingly establishing itself as a central platform for plant-based, cultured and fermented protein products. The Federal Association of Alternative Protein Sources (BALPro) emphasises Germany's pioneering role - through a dynamic ecosystem of start-ups, industry and research. Expectations are centred on innovations in extrusion technology, 3D printing processes and innovative formulations.
Varied supporting programme with a specialist focus
In addition to the exhibition, IFFA 2025 offers an extensive event programme, including:
- IFFA Kitchen with live demos and show cooking
- IFFA Factory to present automated production solutions
- Discovery Tours through the IFFA Worlds
- Presentation of the New Meat Award
- Competitions organised by the German Butchers' Association
Source: Frankfurt Fair
