AI use in food processing is expected to have a compound annual growth rate of 45% between now and 2026, promising improved safety and food quality, according to HUB Risk Services. But AI in food processing is not without risk: Nestlé-owned BlueTriton temporarily shut down plant operations after a driverless forklift caught fire while recharging, according to a lawsuit filed against the manufacturer. The company subsequently grounded all 51 vehicles across their plants.

In addition to business shutdowns, cyberattacks are another risk: Food processing operations dependent on AI could be vulnerable to ransomware attacks. Instead of just data at risk, AI-powered facilities could be completely shut down if a cybercriminal infiltrates the system that controls equipment.