Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a burgeoning technology that is being embraced with a mix of fear, trepidation, and excitement by the world. This powerful and versatile tool has the potential to revolutionize various industries and enhance a myriad of skills. The food industry, in particular, is seizing the opportunities presented by AI. From boosting research to streamlining new product development, analyzing consumer trends, and much more, AI is making its mark in the food sector.
Consumer acceptance of AI in food, however, is not always guaranteed, given the novelty of the technology. A survey conducted by Ingredient Communications in the UK and US revealed that while there is generally a high level of acceptance of AI in food, consumers believe that certain controls should be in place.
The survey findings indicated that 42% of consumers have a positive view of AI in the design and production of food and beverages, compared to 27% with a negative view. Younger individuals, particularly those in the 18-27 age range, showed a higher level of positivity towards AI in food compared to older age groups. Similarly, higher earners exhibited a more positive outlook on AI in food compared to those with lower incomes.
Despite the overall positive sentiment towards AI in food, there are some areas where consumers are more cautiously optimistic. For instance, 53% of respondents had a positive view of using AI in food safety, with only 19% expressing a negative view. Additionally, there is a general belief among consumers that food made using AI is safe to consume, with 45% in agreement and 20% in disagreement.
Consumers also expressed willingness to leverage AI for dietary purposes, with 48% open to having AI analyze their genetic makeup for nutrition recommendations. Furthermore, 43% of consumers trusted AI to make diet and nutrition decisions in their best interest.
Major companies in the food and beverage industry are actively exploring AI to enhance efficiency and innovation. Companies like Danone, Bel Group, Unilever, and Nestlé are leveraging AI for operational efficiency, new product development, trend forecasting, recipe creation, marketing campaigns, and customer service automation.
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding AI in food, consumers are in favor of implementing safeguards and regulations. A majority (83%) of respondents believe that food created using AI should be labeled as such, and 78% feel that governments should regulate the use of AI in food production. Consumers also agreed that products made using AI to save costs should be priced lower.
While there is a general openness towards AI in food, a significant portion of consumers (29%) indicated that knowing a food product was made with AI would make them less likely to purchase it. Resistance to AI in food remains, with some consumers expressing concerns about the use of technology in the food industry.
In conclusion, AI holds immense potential to transform the food industry and enhance various aspects of food production and consumption. While there is a positive outlook towards AI in food, consumers are also advocating for transparency, regulations, and ethical considerations to ensure the safe and responsible integration of AI in the food sector. As technology continues to evolve, finding a balance between innovation and consumer trust will be paramount in shaping the future of AI in the food industry.
