Food processing has entered a new era, characterized by the adoption of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning and artificial vision systems.
In Mexico, artificial intelligence (AI) is having an unprecedented impact on the food industry. The adoption of these technologies is helping companies to improve productivity, optimize the use of resources and reduce waste, in addition to controlling and monitoring food quality with greater precision.
AI is also transforming the food supply chain. Companies in Mexico are using predictive algorithms that allow them to anticipate changes in demand and adjust production accordingly.
This capability is vital in a region where volatile weather conditions and transportation costs can significantly affect food availability.
On the other hand, sustainability is a growing priority in the food industry, and AI is playing a crucial role in helping companies reduce their environmental impact.
AI technologies make it possible to monitor and adjust energy and water use in real time, improving efficiency and reducing resource waste.
In Mexico, several processing plants are using AI to optimize the use of water resources and electricity.
For example, a recent study in a dairy processing plant showed that using AI to control energy flows reduced energy consumption by 18% without affecting product quality.
In addition, AI is being used in precision agriculture, where sensors monitor soil conditions, moisture and crop growth. This allows farmers to use only the necessary amount of fertilizer and water, improving the overall sustainability of agricultural production.
Among the main technology-related trends that are affecting the food industry are the following:
1.- AUTOMATIC LEARNING
This technology allows machines to learn from data, improving continuously without direct human intervention, which represents an improvement in the management of operations of companies in the food sector, from optimizing recipes to improving food safety.
2.- PRODUCT CUSTOMIZATION AND TREND PREDICTION
One of the most interesting advances in the use of machine learning in the food industry is product customization. In Latin America, where consumer preferences are rapidly shifting towards healthier and more sustainable options, companies have begun to use predictive analytics to identify emerging preferences and adjust their product offerings in real time.
There are recent cases in the region of companies using an AI algorithm called Giuseppe to develop plant-based food products that replicate the taste, texture and appearance of animal products, gaining popularity in various markets.
3.-IMPROVING FOOD SAFETY
In food production, one of the biggest challenges is maintaining high levels of food safety, so machine learning is used to predict and detect failures before they occur.
AI systems can analyze real-time data from sensors on production lines, detecting signs of contamination or errors in product batches.
In Mexico, fresh food producers have begun to implement these technologies to ensure that products meet safety standards before they reach the consumer. This technology is crucial in a country where agricultural exports account for a significant share of GDP, and food safety standards are becoming increasingly stringent.
4.- MACHINE VISION
Machine vision systems are essential to ensure that food products meet quality and safety standards. These technologies use high-resolution cameras and image processing algorithms to detect any defects or irregularities in real time, improving the accuracy of quality control.
In the fruit and vegetable processing industry, machine vision systems are used to sort products by size, color and quality. This allows growers to select only products that meet market standards, thereby reducing waste and increasing profitability.
In addition to sorting, machine vision is being used to detect contaminants that might not be visible to the naked eye.
In meat and dairy production lines, for example, these cameras can detect foreign particles or packaging faults, preventing contaminated products from reaching the consumer.
CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THESE INNOVATIONS
Despite advances, the mass adoption of AI and advanced technologies faces several challenges. The initial cost of implementation, along with the lack of trained personnel, are major barriers for many small and medium-sized enterprises in Latin America.
However, government initiatives in countries such as Mexico and Brazil are beginning to address these issues by offering tax incentives and technical training programs.
The opportunities, however, are vast. The adoption of AI will enable food companies not only to improve their operational efficiency, but also to position themselves as leaders in sustainability and food safety.
In Latin America, where the agricultural sector is crucial to local economies, the implementation of these technologies can significantly improve the global competitiveness of companies.
The integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning and vision systems in food processing is changing the way food is produced and managed in Mexico and Latin America.
These innovations are driving improvements in efficiency, sustainability and safety, preparing the industry to meet the challenges of an increasingly competitive global marketplace. Companies that adopt these technologies will be better prepared to meet changing consumer demands and will be able to achieve long-term success.
Source: The Food Tech, “La nueva era del procesamiento de alimentos: IA, aprendizaje automático y sistemas de visión en México y Latinoamérica”
Published September 18, 2024, accessed September 19, 2024
