It was incorporated under the General Laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts December 8, 1953, as Phi Tau Sigma Honorary Society, Inc.

Besides Livingston, the charter members of the honor society were M. P. Baldorf, Robert V. Decareau, E. Felicotti, W. D. Powrie, M. A. Steinberg, and D. E. Westcott.

Phi Tau Sigma recognizes and honors the achievements of Food Scientists and Technologists, encourages the sharing of scientific knowledge, creates a network of professionals, and promotes charitable and educational programs.

The Dr. Gideon “Guy” Livingston Scholarship acknowledges a member's scholastic achievements and dedication to Phi Tau Sigma.

[1] Phi Tau Sigma is a body with its own elected officers and is separate from the scientific professional organization, the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT).