Artificial intelligence (AI) is shaping everything about how it’s produced, served, and sold. With farms, restaurants, and grocery stores adopting AI at a rapid pace, the meals on our tables are increasingly connected to server farms. Here’s a closer look at the impact of AI across the food industry.
AI in Agriculture: Feeding a Growing World
Farmers and ranchers are turning to AI to optimize operations, with government incentives driving adoption. By 2050, the global population is expected to reach 10 billion, requiring 70% more food production, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation. Every innovation counts:
- AI Tools in Use: Crop-surveying drones, GPS technology, and hands-free combine steering are now common. By late 2021, 87% of agricultural businesses used some form of AI, according to the BBC
- Cutting-Edge Innovations: John Deere has integrated AI into its equipment for decades, including precision sensors that reduce herbicide spraying by up to two-thirds. Driverless tractors are also on the rise
- Indoor Vertical Farming: September saw the opening of the world’s first large-scale indoor vertical berry farm in Virginia. AI-driven growth analysis is expected to produce over 4 million pounds of strawberries annually
- AI for Animal Welfare: European scientists developed an algorithm to interpret pig sounds, aiming to improve animal well-being
AI in Fast Food and Restaurants
Quick-service restaurants are leveraging AI to streamline operations and improve customer experiences:
- Voice-Activated Drive-Thrus: Yum Brands, which owns Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, and KFC, is deploying voice tech, digital menu boards, and AI-enabled marketing strategies
- Inventory Management: Wendy’s used Palantir AI tools this summer to manage Frosty supplies during its $1 promotion
- Shift Optimization: AI-enabled shift scheduling is helping restaurants match labor to demand
AI in Grocery Stores
Behind the scenes, supermarkets are adopting AI to enhance efficiency and anticipate customer needs:
- Demand Forecasting: Chains like Albertsons and Family Dollar use AI for inventory management and to predict product demand
- Electronic Shelf Labels: Kroger has implemented electronic labels but faced criticism about their potential for facial recognition-based pricing—allegations the company denies
- Future Spending: Grocery retailers plan to quadruple their AI spending by 2025, aiming to generate $113 billion in value, according to a recent food industry report
Looking Ahead
From farm fields to supermarket aisles, AI is reshaping every step of the food supply chain. With investments ramping up, its role in ensuring food security, optimizing operations, and enhancing customer experience will only grow.
For more information on how you can leverage AI in your food service operation, reach out to us at info@serveitupsafe.com or contact us through our website!