• The integration of new AI technology in the bakery and snack industry is not just limited to innovative marketing campaigns or attractive packaging. The focus is on using algorithms to revolutionize these globally important sectors as well.
AI-generated imagery for bakery and snack products has created considerable interest around this burgeoning technology. However, AI capabilities go far beyond aesthetics. The revolutionary technology contributes significantly to the transformation of businesses in this sector through automation, optimization of production processes and education of the industry.
One area where AI excels is the so-called democratization of access to products and services in the bakery and snack sector. Providing consumers with varied product options—regardless of budget, location, allergies, preferences, or lifestyle—requires advanced implementation of AI technology that enables better management of supply chain and consumer behavior data. consumption.
Digital shoppers represent an ever-expanding consumer market, driven by the growth of online commerce, the Covid-19 pandemic and the expansion of delivery services. Maximizing the convenience and positive experience of bakery and snack consumers is at the heart of applications developed on the basis of Artificial Intelligence.
And in these sectors, equally transformed by the rise of online delivery services, AI and machine learning technologies are playing a key role, experts say, becoming a vital component in the supply chain and in the daily operations of manufacturing companies.
Greater openness to information
Free AI-based apps have replaced expensive sensors and devices designed to monitor user health and are making product and health information increasingly accessible to a larger mass of consumers, helping to optimize their diet without requiring additional devices .
As AI tools become ubiquitous, consumers will have more information about the foods and snacks they consume, and suppliers will need to offer products that meet market demands.
For example, in the US, more than one in three Americans have prediabetes, and 81% of them are unaware of the condition. January application uses AI technology to help people gain insight into their health and understand the impact of diet on blood sugar in order to reduce the incidence of this chronic disease. The app allows consumers to see the predicted impact of foods on blood sugar levels even before they eat them, so they can make informed decisions for their health.
Various ways to use AI technology
As transparency and traceability become increasingly important in the food industry, more and more manufacturing companies are using Artificial Intelligence in the development of new products.
AI is reaching into realms of the baking and snacking sectors that we might not have thought of, such as teaching theory, introducing ingredients and high-level pastry techniques. The example of the implementation of the new technology in this sense represents it The Pastry Class platform, based on Artificial Intelligence, which provides precise and creative instructions on pastry techniques, optimizing recipes and efficient planning of production processes.
Manufacturing companies can use automated AI-powered systems to accurately measure ingredients, ensuring product consistency and quality. This technology can improve the final product, profitability and reduce waste.
In today's gastronomic landscape, AI algorithms are also revolutionizing recipe development. By analyzing extensive data sets, AI can discover new flavor pairings and probe recipe changes. Bakeries or confectioners can then feel confident to experiment with various ingredients, textures and methods to create new and on-trend products. AI can also improve existing recipes by fine-tuning taste, texture and nutritional value.
Tradition embraces new technology
Renowned brands with an impressive history are embracing new technology to improve their overall planning and forecasting capabilities. AI is central to the digital transformation plans of many bakery and snack brands. Companies can use technology to help eliminate tedious and demanding manual tasks from their operations and replace them with modern automation to optimize their manufacturing processes.
With consumers becoming increasingly health-conscious and the sector evolving rapidly through new product development, manufacturers are calling on the support of artificial intelligence experts to make progress in bringing healthier alternatives to their portfolio to market.
Big brands are also bringing generative AI into their communications. Mars, for example, uses generative AI in its corporate and marketing communications, mainly to help create funny and creative messages, as the site reports PEX Network.
AI is also changing the way bakeries interact with customers, offering personalized experiences. By analyzing data, AI systems can gain valuable insights into consumer preferences, decision considerations, and behavior. Manufacturers in the bakery and snack industry can then deliver personalized recommendations, stories, promotions and baked goods tailored to drive customer satisfaction and build brand loyalty.
An insurance for the future of the business
Accurately forecasting customer demand is a significant challenge in the bakery industry. AI algorithms can examine sales data, local events and time-of-year patterns to predict demand more accurately. Bakeries can therefore optimize their production, minimize waste and ensure popular products are never out of stock.
Maintaining the highest standards of quality and food safety is also crucial. Artificial intelligence-based systems can monitor production processes in real time and detect faults, irregularities and potential operational risks. Taking a proactive approach improves product quality and ensures compliance with food safety regulations.
Bakeries can use automated AI-based systems to handle repetitive tasks, leaving only the more complex and creative tasks to humans.
AI-powered tools are also changing the way bakeries approach social media marketing and engagement. These solutions can analyze social media trends, predict sought-after ingredients and flavors, and help bakeries develop comprehensive marketing strategies. Automated social media tools can manage online interactions, respond to customer inquiries, and enhance online brand identities to build connections and engagement.
Regulations required
A study conducted by the agency McKinsey reports that 60% of surveyed companies will use generative artificial intelligence in 2023 – calling it "debut year" of this technology. With that number expected to grow, experts believe that opening the dialogue about the concerns, confusions and complexities surrounding this advanced technology plays a significant role in increasing digital safety.
As awareness grows around the use of AI, manufacturers in the bakery and snack industry can better understand how to navigate the AI legal landscape, protect and manage access to their online platforms, while improving services for customers.
Currently, the new technology regulatory landscape is not harmonized. The lack of universal standards such as GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) and EU Law to guide implementation often leads to unforeseen situations. As a result, the use of AI may still generate reservations, instead of becoming a tool to help connect bakery and snack brands and their products with end consumers.
Article written by Gabriela Dan, Editor of Arta Albă
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