How Technology Is Transforming the Food Industry
Technology and food are not normally synonymous. Nevertheless, things have changed in recent years. Technology has changed how food is produced and how people get their food. For example, the availability of applications, data, robotics, and processing techniques have all played a role in transforming the food industry.
Recent reports have indicated that technology helps food manufacturers to produce more efficiently for the growing world population. So, how is technology transforming the food industry?
Robotics and Machines
The use of machines in the food industry has improved quality and affordability. Moreover, it helps to reduce the cost of keeping food fresh and boost productivity. Reports suggest that the increased use of robotics in the food industry is a practical example of food technology.
Research has revealed that there are more than 30000 robots in the European food industry. Countries such as Italy, Denmark, Sweden, and the Netherlands have the highest density of robots.
Food industry experts have stated that robotic machines are critical in eliminating safety issues for dangerous jobs in the industry. For instance, a technology company launched a program for butchery in 2016. The program introduced the use of robots to cut the tougher meats hence eliminating workplace injuries.
The Use of Drones
One of the major contributions of technology to the food industry is precision agriculture. This technology uses GPS tracking systems and satellite imagery to examine soil levels, crop yields, and weather patterns, increasing efficiency on the farm.
Drones enable farmers to observe everything that is happening across the fields. Moreover, they can also use the analysis from the observation findings to test the soil and crop health.
Additionally, drones can also be used to locate and identify diseased and damaged crops and tend to them straight away. However, using drones does not eliminate the need for farm workers. Instead, it makes them more efficient.
3D Printing
In recent years, 3D printing has transformed multiple industries. This technology has also impacted the food industry immensely. 3D printing opens the door for innovation that can be used to create numerous things that couldn’t be created earlier.
For instance, there have been multiple applications of 3D printing food and creating soft foods for individuals having challenges chewing hard food.
Packaging and Waste
In the current world, consumers are concerned about having healthy and sustainable foods. Consumers keenly look at labels and harmful ingredients, and social media has made it hard for companies to get away with things they would initially get away with.
Moreover, with the world tackling the obesity crisis, consumers have become very picky with what they consume. This changing consumer behavior has pushed food companies to embrace the latest technologies to cater to their consumers’ needs.
Many companies have embraced technology to help them go green. Digitization and robotics have helped companies in the food industry to find alternatives to plastics and other packages detrimental to the environment.
There are several ways technology is applied in packaging. For example, there is edible packaging, micro packaging, and bacteria-fighting packaging.
Apart from packaging, consumers are also interested in where food companies are sourcing their products. They are also interested in how food companies handle their waste. Studies have confirmed that Americans throw away 40% of their food each year.
However, thanks to technology, food companies are taking gradual steps towards reducing wastage and finding ways to use extra food well. For instance, there are mobile apps with a broad dashboard that links companies with extra food to local shelters, nonprofit organizations, and after-school programs. These apps use analytic software to manage and track surplus food to save money and reduce overall food wastage.
Technological advancements offer multiple ways that food companies can use to produce food. As the world finds ways to deal with food wastage, it is clear that technology will play a key role in finding the solution.
Alternative Protein Technologies
Plant-based products marketers are moving closer to achieving price parity with animal-based products. However, there is still room for improvement in these alternative proteins’ texture, taste, and color.
These products have become popular in a society that is fighting an obesity crisis. This is because there is a drastic push for the elimination of animal protein.
In this regard, alternative protein technologies can help innovators address the multiple sensory factors. For instance, cell-based fats and mycelium usually address issues of texture and color, and fermented ingredients address color, texture, and taste matters.
Final Thoughts
Have you ever tried to imagine what the human population will be eating in 2050? Well, if you are interested, you might want to look at emerging food technologies. The changing consumer needs have pushed the stakeholders to change their ways.
For instance, traceability, ingredients, and nutritional value of food products have become very critical aspects. As a result, the stakeholders in the food industry have embraced the latest technologies to address emerging issues.