In this webinar, we address the topic of artificial intelligence in the food sector.
Beyond the Plate: How Artificial Intelligence in the Food Sector is Redefining Customer Engagement
As we move through 2026, the Food & Beverage industry is hitting a critical turning point. In a landscape defined by razor-thin margins, unpredictable demand spikes, and seasonal swings, artificial intelligence in the food sector has transitioned from a futuristic “nice-to-have” to a core strategic pillar.
The numbers tell a compelling story: PwC projects the AI food market will soar to $43.4 billion by 2028, a staggering fivefold increase from its 2023 valuation. The shift is particularly visible in Italy, where roughly 43% of food-tech startups have already woven AI into their DNA to stay competitive.
Why AI is the New Secret Ingredient for Success
Implementing artificial intelligence allows brands to cut through the noise of big data and turn raw information into actionable strategy. While computer vision and robotics are transforming quality control and logistics , conversational AI is the standout performer for direct-to-consumer relationships.
The Strategic Edge of Conversational AI
Smart interfaces are no longer just “help bots” they are sophisticated tools that manage:
- Round-the-clock Support: Providing instant answers on allergens, ingredients, and order status at 3:00 AM, just as easily as at 3:00 PM.
- Hyper-Personalization: Moving beyond generic ads to suggest products based on a customer’s unique history and tastes.
- Reimagined Loyalty: Shifting reward programs from mere transactions to ongoing dialogues by sending the right message at the perfect moment.
- Proactive Listening: Using real-time sentiment analysis to catch and fix issues before they damage the brand’s reputation.
Success in Action: Centrale del Latte di Torino
A prime example of artificial intelligence in the food sector done right is Centrale del Latte di Torino. A historic brand founded in the 1950s, they have successfully blended tradition with cutting-edge tech.
The Leap to Generative AI
While they first dipped their toes into automation in 2021 , the real breakthrough came with their upgrade to generative AI. The impact was immediate:
- Explosive Engagement: In less than a year (since March 2025), their AI assistant “Tappo Rosso” has handled over 13,700 messages—outperforming the total volume of the previous three years combined.
- Operational Relief: The AI acts as a frontline filter, handling repetitive queries and saving the marketing team hours of manual work every single day.
- Seamless Interaction: The system is so intuitive and empathetic that many customers feel they are speaking with a real person, even when asking complex questions about pasteurization or dairy categories.
“We shouldn’t view AI as a threat to jobs, but as a way to reclaim time spent on tedious, repetitive tasks, allowing us to focus on high-value, creative challenges”.
The Road Ahead: Human-Centric Innovation
The future of artificial intelligence in the food sector lies in “multimodality” systems that can pivot between text, voice, and even gesture to create more inclusive and hygienic user experiences.
However, the “Human in the Loop” remains the North Star. Technology is here to empower people, not replace the irreplaceable. While AI can process data at lightning speed, only humans can navigate emotional nuance, handle complex crises, and build the authentic trust that defines a world-class brand.