Exploring the Intersection of Food and Technology

Written by Nwabugwu Somgolie 

 

Food science, as we know, is the research and study of the properties in the processing of food; be it chemical, physical or biological. This study encompasses the tiniest detail, the composition and structure of the food and even its nutritional value to the human body system.

Technology, on the other hand, has been around and evolving over the years. It is explained as the application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, especially in industries.

Intersection Of Food And Technology 

As life became easier and more people opted for an “on-the-go” lifestyle, more means were adopted to fit this new way of living. 

Food producers are adopting new technological approaches to help with the dietary needs of people, by improving how food is produced, stored, packaged and consumed. 

Seeing these two definitions, begs to inquire: What role does technology play in the production of food for the economy?

Applications Of Technology To Food Processing 

Since the innovation of technology, it has affected a lot of areas of living quite positively. This section of the article focuses on the positive ways we apply technology to food production.

• Ensuring the safety of food by enforcing quality packaging of food products 

• Identifying and preventing the spread of foodborne diseases

• Meeting standard safety measures for food production 

• Improving the texture, quality and nutritional value of a food product 

How Technology Is Changing The Food Industry 

Growing concerns people are having concerning how we grow and package our food are causing manufacturers and farmers alike to look into their methods and how they affect the environment.

This has caused the food industry to opt for less traditional ways to produce and package food products. 

Let’s dive into how technology is changing the food industry

Already made frozen dishes

The lives of consumers are now mostly fast-paced, there becomes a need to get with the times in terms of their dietary needs. Pre-seasoned and pre-cooked meals are all rage as it fits well into their lifestyle 

Adoption of robots 

This helps to track and monitor the health of crops and detect illnesses early on. 

Genetically modified organisms 

These are inserted in a plant's genes to help it become disease resistant and grow in areas not favourable for production. GMOs are typically used in large crops such as rice, wheat and corn. 

Meat industry technology 

AI is effective in poultry production where it helps detect health issues with birds by the sounds they make. AI robots can work at poultry farms to collect eggs or assist with butchering.

3D food printer

These printers are used to recreate food -- such as pizza, snacks and candy -- at a faster pace. The ingredients, and structure of the food are designed by placing it one layer after the other.  This could eliminate waste, as leftover ingredients can be reused.

Technology is not just limited to producers

Restaurants are also using IOT technology to manage and track ingredients from initial order to arrival. Using sensors, restaurant owners can track the temperature of storeroom shelves and delivery trucks. They can watch the entire journey to ensure all safety standards are followed.

Conclusion 

Technology is playing an increasingly important role in the food industry, and this is not changing any time soon. Brands and companies are now being a lot more responsible in product development, packaging and supply. 

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