Stellenbosch’s Jana Schreuder has been appointed as the new President of the Institute of Food Technologists Student Association (IFTSA), a global community led by student members of the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT). Her term will officially start on September 1, 2025, taking over from Viral Shukla of Cornell University, who now holds the position of Immediate Past President. Each president of IFTSA serves for one year.
What’s particularly noteworthy is that Schreuder is the first IFTSA President to come from a non-U.S. institution. Currently, she’s working towards her PhD in Food Science at Stellenbosch University, focusing on Vibrational Spectroscopy and Chemometrics. Her research is centered on utilizing near-infrared hyperspectral imaging for quick pathogen detection, a project supported by a Harry Crossley scholarship. She also earned her Bachelor’s degree in Food Science from the same university.
Schreuder’s work showcases her dedication to enhancing the food industry through innovative technology, aiming to develop safer, more efficient, and less wasteful food production systems.
In recognition of her academic and leadership achievements, she received Stellenbosch University’s Rector’s Award for Excellent Achievement (Academic Excellence) in 2023 and was honored as one of the Mail & Guardian’s 200 Young South Africans, which celebrates exceptional young professionals across various sectors.
“I’m truly honored to take on this role and represent both South Africa and Stellenbosch University’s Department of Food Science on a global platform,” Schreuder expressed. “It’s especially significant that as I start my term, my department head, Professor Gunnar Sigge, is stepping into the role of IFT President-elect — a proud moment for our university.
“As President, I aim to build on the fantastic work of those who came before me, strengthen our global student community, and foster a more connected and collaborative future for the science of food.”
Beyond her time as president, Schreuder has remained deeply involved in the global food science community. Since 2023, she’s taken on the role of Student Representative for IFT’s International Division, which is all about fostering global scientific collaboration and technology transfer. She also led the Food Science Association at Stellenbosch University, guiding the university’s inaugural participation in the IFTSA College Bowl and helping to establish Stellenbosch as an official IFTSA Chapter.
“Student leaders like Jana and IFTSA President-elect Chamali Kodikara bring the creativity, innovation, and determination needed to transform the global food system,” said Christie Tarantino-Dean, CEO of IFT. “As one of the world’s leading food science organizations, IFT continues to unite exceptional international leaders to shape a healthier, more sustainable food future.”
Supporting Leadership: Chamali Kodikara Named IFTSA President-elect
Chamali Kodikara, a PhD student and Vanier Scholar at the University of Manitoba, Canada, has been named IFTSA President-elect. Her research is focused on detecting ergot alkaloids in wheat and using cold plasma processing to reduce mycotoxins. Previously, she served as Vice President of Competitions for IFTSA and chaired the Graduate Research Video Competition.
Kodikara has also taken on leadership roles as President of the Food and Human Nutritional Sciences Graduate Students Association and was instrumental in founding the University of Manitoba IFTSA Chapter, which is the third Canadian chapter in IFTSA history.
She’s an active member of several IFT groups, including the Food Safety & Quality Management Division, Product Development Division, International Division, and Women’s Resource Group.
“I feel privileged to work alongside inspiring student leaders like Jana and Viral,” said Kodikara. “I’m excited to help make IFTSA more accessible to students around the globe and to celebrate the diversity that fuels innovation in food science.”
To learn more about the Institute of Food Technologists Student Association (IFTSA), visit IFT.org
