As the sector continues to expand rapidly, the global food industry faces increasing pressure to ensure safety, transparency and efficiency in its supply chains. In India, the foodservice market is expected to grow from $41.1 billion in 2022 to $79.65 billion by 2028, at a CAGR of 11.19 percent, highlighting the need for proactive and end-to-end supply chain monitoring. Its safety in the logistics sector is particularly crucial, as any violations of the food safety protocol pose a stern risk not only to public health, but also to the brand’s reputation. Therefore, the need to ensure food safety cannot be overemphasized.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), contaminated food causes approximately 600 million cases of disease annually around the world. Apart from human casualties, such incidents undermine consumer confidence and cause significant economic losses to F&B brands.
Amid these challenges, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a game-changer, revolutionizing the way transportation food safety is managed in the supply chain.
AI growth trajectory in the food industry
The AI market size in this area is growing exponentially, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 38.30%. This is expected to grow to $48.99 billion by 2029, reflecting the industry’s growing reliance on AI-based solutions. In the face of supply chain disruptions, it enables businesses to quickly adapt and ensure continuity. Industry giants around the world, including Tyson Foods and Unilever, are already leveraging the versatility of AI to mitigate disruptions, find alternative supply sources and diversify their supplier bases to escalate resilience.
For example, Unilever uses AI applications to identify diverse suppliers, including SMEs, increasing supply chain resilience and responsiveness. Additionally, brisk food chains such as McDonald’s, Domino’s and Chipotle, and grocery store Walmart are using artificial intelligence tools to quickly locate alternative supply sources and optimize supplier bases, streamlining operations and minimizing disruptions.
Here are some of the AI capabilities that enhance supply chain security:
Using artificial intelligence for real-time monitoring
One of the key applications of artificial intelligence in food safety is real-time monitoring. Thanks to AI-enabled sensors and IoT devices, key parameters such as temperature, humidity and air quality are constantly monitored throughout the supply chain. This allows any deviations from optimal conditions to be quickly corrected, minimizing the risk of spoilage or contamination.
Increasing traceability and transparency
Artificial intelligence plays a key role in improving traceability systems, enabling end-to-end visibility using technologies such as RFID tags, GPS tracking and blockchain. These technologies not only improve transparency, but also facilitate quick product recalls and escalate liability in the event of disruptions that may compromise food quality.
Predictive analytics and risk assessment
AI-powered predictive analytics enables companies to proactively identify and mitigate risk. By analyzing data from various sources, it detects patterns and provides valuable information for decision-making. This proactive approach to risk assessment helps prevent security incidents before they occur, protecting both consumers and brands.
Optimize operations and reduce inefficiencies
Artificial intelligence also plays a vital role in optimizing supply chain operations and reducing inefficiencies. By identifying bottlenecks and streamlining processes, it enables companies to improve inventory management, logistics planning and overall operational efficiency. Real-time data analysis enables decision-makers to make informed choices that escalate efficiency and reduce costs.
Remote audit and compliance
In addition to operational improvements, AI facilitates remote audits and compliance monitoring. Real-time data collection and remote inspections enable companies to ensure compliance with regulations and safety standards, even in remote locations. This not only improves efficiency, but also reduces the costs associated with customary audit methods.
The future of food safety based on artificial intelligence
The integration of artificial intelligence means a change in the way safety and logistics are managed in the global food industry. These technology-driven solutions enable companies to strengthen supply chains, ensure product safety, escalate efficiency and promote sustainability, which is seen as a trend among major players in the foodservice market. As the industry continues to evolve, the employ of this technology will play an vital role in building resilient, clear and adaptable supply chains that meet the demands of a rapidly changing world. Looking ahead, the potential for further innovation in this space is enormous. By using such solutions, companies can create safer and more sustainable supply chains that meet the changing needs of consumers and effectively cope with emerging challenges.
The author, Abilash Krishnaswamy, is VP of Product at Culinary Digital. The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of ET HospitalityWorld.
