New tech making food supply chains smarter

Smart, efficient, and environmentally-friendly food supply chains are becoming a reality thanks to the latest innovations in the field.

One such innovation is the stamp-sized, battery-free Bluetooth label created by Israeli digital start-up Wiliot. This label can be attached to items or packaging and can track and log the temperature and location of produce using embedded IoT sensors.

By providing real-time information on produce quality and delivery times, these labels can help reduce supply chain waste and lower the carbon footprint of food manufacturing and transportation.

In addition, digital twins, which are computerized models of real-life systems, products, or processes, are being used to improve efficiency and design in food manufacturing. By providing real-time visibility of equipment performance, these models can identify areas for improvement and enhance efficiency.

Meanwhile, Agriculture Victoria’s Tatura SmartFarm is researching and developing prototype systems to capture quality data on fruits, such as apples, pears, and stone fruit. These systems can share the captured data throughout the supply chain, providing insights into the quality and productivity of the fruit.

The UK is also developing various smart technologies, such as machine learning, predictive analytics, robots, the Industrial Internet of Things, virtual reality, and augmented reality to support food manufacturing and production. However, Australia is placing a greater emphasis on sustainability, net zero goals, and waste reduction.

The adoption of smart technologies is a valuable lesson for Australia to make each stage of the food supply chains more environmentally friendly.

By embracing IoT, digital twins, and other innovative solutions, the food industry can reduce waste and carbon emissions while increasing efficiency and improving product quality.