How Technology Has Innovated the Food Industry

Technology advancements and a proper understanding of food science are key to how the foods we eat are reprocessed and packaged. Developed countries like Germany are leading in the use of robotics in their food industries. However, countries like Italy, Netherlands, Sweden, and Denmark have a relatively high robot density. Robotics and machines have to ensure continued affordability and quality. Nevertheless, the use of devices drives the cost of keeping fresh food downwards, and productivity is increased. Robotic machines have helped reduce workplace injuries. An example is in a butchery, where robots cut difficult meat.

Food technology has also led to the rise of nutraceutical companies. People are more aware of their health, and they want to live long, healthy lives. Nutraceutical companies produce supplements that boost the immune system. Countries, where most of the significant population are aged, have implemented policies to ensure that nutraceutical companies operate according to the guidelines. Additionally, custom supplement manufacturer conducts research and forecasts trends that people will need.

In America, 40% of its food is thrown away annually. Evolving technology can help eliminate world hunger and solve the waste problem. Apart from robotics, other technology that has impacted food technology includes:

For precision agriculture, satellite imagery and GPS tracking systems to monitor weather patterns, soil levels, and crop yields have increased the farm's efficiency. Using drones, they can use findings from the analysis to test the health of the crops and test the soil. Drones quickly locate damaged or diseased crops and act on them immediately. However, it's crucial to note that the use of drones doesn't eliminate the labor force. Alternatively, drones help workers to be more efficient. Robots create a faster environment; hence goods are produced in large volumes at low prices.

With the help of social media, customers are keener on labels and harmful ingredients. With the use of digitizing and robotics, companies can go green. Moreover, food industry companies can find alternatives to dangerous packaging like the use of plastics. Different ways technology has enabled packaging are:

Consumers are also keen on where companies source their raw materials and how they handle their waste products. Additionally, Copia, an app, uses its analytical software to connect businesses with excess food to non-profit organizations, local shelters, and after-school programs. Copia has helped in tracking the surplus, hence saving money and reducing overall wastage.

Several applications of 3D printings have helped in maintaining food sustainability. Examples include the creation of soft foods for those who are unable to consume hard food. Also, another application is the making of pizza.

GMO is vital in food technology. GMO is genetically engineered to have certain traits such as pest resistance, herbicide resistance, and increased nutritional value. Crops such as wheat, grains, and rice are currently genetically modified to grow in other areas that aren't native. The modification has yielded productivity to feed more people. Animal products such as poultry, beef, and fish are also modified to increase the meat quantity by adding nutrients and proteins to the animal or fastening the animals' growth rate.

With the world's population almost reaching 9 billion, more space must be created for farming and growing crops—one of the latest underground farms. An example is a hydroponic farm which is built in what were once air-raid shelters. The abandoned underground tunnels have made hydroponic farming possible, as nutrient-rich water solution is used instead of soil. Additionally, LED lights have enabled the bulbs to produce specific lights needed by the different crops. Phillips is in the process of creating special LED bulbs that will be appropriate for growing plants indoors by having particular wavelengths.

Technological advancements in the food industry are essential in ensuring food security. Some of the benefits that are derived from food technology are many. They include:

The importance of food technology is not emphasized enough. Supplements and vitamins prevent chronic illnesses associated with old age. With technological advancement, lives are more comfortable. People can easily order online from wherever they are in the world, be it food or supplements.