Technology is changing how most industries function, and this is true too, even for the food industry. One might assume that the food industry is all about creating new recipes, and technology plays no vital part. However, it is not the case. Emerging technologies are also reshaping the food industry. Technologies that play a prominent role in the food industry are biometrics, artificial intelligence, virtual reality and wearable technology. Here is a list of how emerging technology is reshaping the food industry.
1. Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence Can stimulate human intelligence. Artificial intelligence plays an important role in the food industry through automation and reactive machines. For instance, many food surveys like Mcdvoice and KrogerFeedback are floated to take customers’ feedback and improve the restaurant or food service. Manually, going through such surveys can be tiring. However, with Artificial Intelligence, all the surveys can be processed quickly to extract all the essential data. Further, artificial intelligence can also identify patterns and draw insights from the data to improve the functioning of the food industry. Many restaurants are also using AI for planning the menu and for, managing waitlists and even managing seat planning too. In addition, it is also helping the restaurant manage the operations, inventory and labour.
2. Biometrics, 3D Imaging and Facial Recognition
It is believed that biometrics, 3D imaging and facial recognition are believed to be mainstream in the food industry by 2025. This technology is expected to ensure the quality of the food along with the food platin. In addition, it will be helpful in staff scheduling and guest sentiment measuring. It will also be used for easy staff recognition too.
Facial recognition will also enable one to check previous transactions and give order recommendations quickly. Identifying a customer as soon as they enter the restaurant will allow one to provide personalised and customised recognition.
3. Virtual Reality
Virtual reality in the food industry is used for training. It is generally used for training the staff for complex tasks. It plays a key role in staff training. Other usages of virtual reality in the food industry include designing a kitchen or food restaurant. It can also enhance the guest experience by providing guest entertainment. There are instances where restaurants use virtual reality glass to give customers an immersive experience.
4. Drones
The food industry is not only about dine-in but also about food delivery. Drones can be used for food delivery by the restaurant. Reports have indicated that 48% of the deliveries in the food industry by 2025 will be done via drones. In addition, drones can also be used to deliver supplies to restaurants.
5. Robotics
With robotics, it is possible to make robots do everything a human can do. Robots can help the chef prepare a dish and further check the quality of the working condition in the kitchen. Secondly, it can be used for staff training. Currently, it is prominently used for serving and seating guests. Many restaurants are currently employing robots to create labour-intensive dishes.
The Future Of The Food Industry
Technology will play an integral role in the coming years in providing individual experiences to the customer. This has always been a central theme for hospitality, however, technology will take it to the next level. Further, it will help the guests and staff to interact with each other in a simplified manner too. Also, it needs to be noted that technology will enhance the experience of everyone, but it in no way, will replace the human touch in the food industry.
Technology will simply make it easier to engage in repetitive tasks. It will enhance the experience of both the workers and the customers. It will act like a helping hand for the people engaged in the hospitality sector but in no way will replace their work. Even though the food industry is adopting technology to revolutionise itself, the potential of technological adoption in this sector is still massive. Hopefully, time will prove how technology can truly revolutionise the food industry. Many restaurants are enjoying its benefits now, and many will also enjoy their benefits in the future. It is predicted that we will see the widespread adoption of technology in the food industry by 2025; we will have to wait till then to understand the true potential of technology in this industry.
