AI Making Baking Manufacturing a Sustainable Process

In the baking industry, new technology may be used to increase efficiency and reduce food waste.

Fremont, CA: With the world's population growing and living standards rising, society and industry confront ever-increasing challenges in balancing profit and sustainability. One example of difficulty is ensuring food security for a world population of 10 billion people in the future. To meet these needs, food makers and processors must, on the one hand, boost production while, on the other, reduce waste. Consumers and retailers are putting pressure on food production systems to assure safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance.

Increased focus on sustainability

Consumers and the food business are increasingly concerned about sustainability, and one crucial component is decreasing food waste. According to the Food Waste Reduction Alliance research, businesses and consumers in the United States waste 25 percent to 40 percent of all food grown, processed, and transported each year. Food waste can happen at any step during the production process.

Role of data and technology

To improve accuracy and efficiency, data and technology can be used. For instance, to examine the sources of problems, data can be retrieved from PLCs (programmable logic controllers) in the manufacturing process. Other data sources, such as cameras on manufacturing lines and information from ingredient suppliers, can also be acquired. An AI algorithm can be used to evaluate data, interpret findings, and provide real-time assistance to helpline operators. AI algorithms make it possible to connect the dots and figure out why process inefficiencies occur. For example, if the bread is excessively dark in color, the algorithm may suggest adding additional water to the mix, lowering the oven temperature, or both.

Advanced manufacturing technology for supply chain challenges

One benefit of utilizing modern manufacturing technology is the ability to overcome supply chain constraints. In the face of supply issues, such as those caused by the epidemic or the recent wave of ingredient shortages and price inflation, technology can help boost manufacturing capacity and efficiency.

AI as an opportunity to advance the industry

When the baking sector invests more widely in technologies that enable data collection during the manufacturing process, its capacity to harness emerging technology to boost sustainability will be significantly enhanced. This will assist bakers in preventing losses before they occur.