How Innovations Are Changing Our Approach to Food
In today's world, with increasingly complex global supply chains and consumer demands for transparency and quality, food safety is transforming from a routine matter into a complex technological challenge.
The integrated approach to safety today involves much more than just complying with sanitary standards in the kitchen. It starts with fields and farms and ends on the consumer's plate, covering every link in the complex food chain. Research shows that for successful food safety management in restaurant establishments, it is critically important to apply a systemic approach that includes proper storage, preparation and processing of food to eliminate health risks for consumers 6 .
Instead of reacting to incidents - preventing them through predictive analytics and real-time monitoring.
The ability to accurately track the origin of each product and ingredient at all stages of production.
The ability to quickly respond to new threats and challenges in a changing climate and globalization.
AI has become a transversal technology for the entire agri-food value chain. Its impact is evident: cost reduction, 40% reduction in energy consumption and 35% reduction in CO₂ emissions 1 .
Additionally, AI is revolutionizing quality assurance: AI-based computer vision systems can detect defects, contamination and anomalies in real time, ensuring better product safety 5 .
Biotechnology is changing our diet. Precision fermentation, cellular cultivation and alternative ingredients such as mushrooms, algae and rubisco are driving a new wave of high-protein products with low environmental impact 1 .
For example, Arkeon, a partner of ICL Planet Startup Hub, is developing technology to convert carbon dioxide (CO2) into protein ingredients, providing a sustainable method of food production that does not require arable land or traditional agricultural resources 4 .
Smart robotics is revolutionizing everything - from precision farming to intra-factory logistics. In factories, magnetic levitation technologies such as XPlanar from Beckhoff Automation ensure frictionless transport of goods, reducing wear and improving energy efficiency 1 .
| Technology | Main Function | Safety Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Blockchain | Decentralized transaction ledger | Impossible to falsify data, complete product history |
| Dynamic QR Codes | Interactive barcodes | Instant access to origin and quality information |
| Smart Labels | Temperature and humidity sensors | Real-time monitoring of storage conditions |
Research conducted by Protera, which collaborates with ICL Planet Startup Hub, demonstrates the potential of combining AI and precision fermentation to create new sustainable proteins 4 .
Researchers use their proprietary MADI™ algorithm, which analyzes millions of protein sequences from various sources. AI identifies proteins with desired functional properties (e.g., foaming, emulsifying or gelling ability). The algorithm predicts the protein structure and optimizes it for specific food applications.
Selected microorganisms (e.g., yeast or bacteria) are placed in bioreactors. Under controlled conditions, they are fed sustainable raw materials (e.g., agricultural waste). Microorganisms metabolize nutrients and produce target proteins.
Proteins are isolated from the fermentation medium. They are then purified to achieve the desired purity and functionality. The resulting ingredient can take various forms: powders, liquids or emulsions.
The study showed that proteins obtained through precision fermentation can directly replace traditional ingredients (e.g., egg white or emulsifiers) in various food products, demonstrating equal or better functionality 4 .
| Parameter | Traditional Egg White | Precision Fermentation Protein |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Content | ~11% per egg | >80% in powder |
| Foam Stability | High | High or better |
| Environmental Impact | Moderate | Significantly lower |
| Requires Land Resources | Yes | No |
The scientific significance of this experiment lies in demonstrating that the combination of AI and biotechnology can create ingredients with precisely controlled properties, minimal environmental impact and without the use of animals. This paves the way for a more ethical and sustainable food system capable of feeding the planet's growing population.
Modern food safety laboratories and food manufacturers use a range of sophisticated tools to ensure quality and safety.
Big data analysis to detect patterns. Application: Predicting food poisoning outbreaks, optimizing supply chains.
Production of ingredients in controlled conditions. Application: Creating alternative proteins, enzymes, vitamins.
Measuring temperature, humidity, pH. Application: Monitoring storage and transportation conditions of perishable products.
Rapid identification of microorganisms. Application: Accurate detection of pathogens in food products.
Secure transaction recording. Application: Ensuring immutable product traceability history.
Interactive labels with sensors. Application: Real-time quality monitoring and consumer information.
The technological revolution in food safety is just beginning. We are moving toward a future where every product can be fully traced, where artificial intelligence will prevent threats before they appear, and where cutting-edge biotechnology will provide healthy and safe nutrition for the planet's growing population.
The integration of technology and sustainability is key to transforming food production for future generations 4 .
As Hadar Sutowsky, Vice President of ICL, notes: "Through strategic investments and partnerships, we are not only solving today's problems, but also creating opportunities for future generations" 4 . Implementing these innovations will not only strengthen our security, but also create a more sustainable and ethical global food system capable of withstanding the challenges of the future.
Reducing environmental impact through innovative production methods
Enhanced monitoring and prevention of foodborne illnesses
Complete traceability from farm to fork