Food and Beverage Manufacturing Top Stories

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Inspection tools today include metal detectors, vision systems, X-ray and NIR hyperspectral systems, and for some applications, all of them may be required for a specific food or beverage product. AI/ML promises to extend their capabilities in the coming years.

While pasteurization holds an important role in dairy processing, aseptic processing opens the door for more product options.

The pursuit of improved operational margins is difficult, as CPG companies face over 20% in cost losses due to inefficiencies. Many are implementing advanced sensors and contextual data analysis to enhance maintenance and develop AI-driven strategies in manufacturing.

PACK EXPO International 2026 will be held at McCormick Place in Chicago from October 18 to 21. The event will feature over 1.3 million square feet of exhibition space, accommodating 2,600 exhibitors and 48,000 attendees. Here’s a preview of some of the equipment solutions that exhibitors will introduce or showcase at the show.

While there are multiple hygienically designed machines and sanitation methods available to the industry, labor shortages and new or changing regulations pose hurdles for food and beverage manufacturers.

For food and beverage manufacturers, AI readiness begins with gaining visibility into the plant that exists today, identifying the risks and constraints that matter most, and establishing a practical roadmap for modernization.

Food and beverage manufacturers encounter significant challenges beyond simply delivering products, including tightening regulations, rising costs, and labor shortages. Despite these obstacles, they continue to prioritize investments in food safety, traceability, automation, and sustainability to enhance operational efficiency.

The U.S. HHS and FDA have submitted a proposed definition of "ultra-processed foods" to the OMB for review. Developed with feedback from various stakeholders, the definition aims to create federal uniformity, but it has not yet been published in the Federal Register.

In addition to artificial intelligence (AI), big data and sustainability concerns, food industry professionals taking part in PMMI's research emphasized health-driven product shifts, ongoing workforce constraints and heightened sanitation scrutiny.

Just like a generic ERP in food manufacturing will never function as efficiently as a purpose-built ERP, the same holds true for AI.