Traditional methods of food processing are quickly evolving to integrate the latest advances in information technology, automation and control along entire supply chains and factories, which is known as the Food Industry 4.0 . The idea behind it is to create synergies among all elements along a processing chain, from primary producers to final consumers, based on data and machine learning to drive improvements in productivity, quality and sustainability.
The Institute of Marine Research is contributing to this revolution with its innovative technologies and approaches. Our researchers and technicians currently work on improved sensors & models for production & traceability. By providing real-time data on the status of a process or product, we allow for greater and more flexible control over production. We also add value to these food products and increase their shelf-life.
Furthermore, the IIM works on the development of new environmentally-friendly packaging and smart interactive labeling to better inform all the agents along the food chain. Finally, exploring new technologies and methods for the valorization of waste products fosters a circular economy, which, once again, brings our society closer to fully sustainable development.
A common example of integration along the value chain is traceability. Traceability of raw materials can increase the added value of food products and prevent food fraud. Moreover, traceability of contamination and quality also ensures food safety and increases shelf life for many products. Sensing technologies and modeling contribute greatly to this effort by providing real-time data on the status of a process or product, thus allowing for greater control and flexibility to optimize the production dynamically.
Food industry is also demanding environmentally friendly conservation and packaging systems, with smart and interactive labeling to increase shelf life and respond to consumers demands. Consumers also demand a more responsible and circular food industry. Valorization of by-products from the food processing industry also helps to minimize its environmental impact, as well as to create new value chains.
As you can see, the institute has been accompanying the food industry during this fourth revolution in many different aspects; you can read about all our capabilities and associated services below.