Augmented reality (AR) represents a new kind of human-computer interaction, where a person's view of the real world is overlaid with computer-generated information, giving the impression that real and virtual objects coexist simultaneously. It combines real and virtual data; functions in real-time; is fully interactive, and achieves perfect alignment between the actual world and the digitally created one. AR technology might be used as a formidable instrument for recording and making sense of the nuances of human sensory experience. A wide variety of sectors such as healthcare, public safety, oil and gas, tourism and marketing employ AR for education, work and consumer applications. The food industry is a prime example of a sector ripe for using AR.
Need for AR in the food industry
The food sector is a vital part of the global economy, ensuring that food is fit for human consumption through specific processes for handling, preparation and logistics. The effects of climate change, resource scarcity, fluctuating consumer expectations and strict laws are always under scrutiny by the stakeholders in this industry. In addition, the globalization, fragmentation and complexity of food supply networks have increased, prompting implementation of some of the improvements proposed by Industry 4.0. One of the primary goals in this setting is to improve openness by using AR applications. In the food industry, this means meeting customer demands for novel, sustainable goods that are also safe, of higher quality and can be delivered in shorter time frames.
[See also: Industrial applications of augmented reality]
Potential applications of AR in the food industry
Using AR in the business of food is a great way to introduce consumers to new products. These days, it takes more than just putting a product on a shelf to make a sale. As a result, more and more well-known firms are taking a forward-thinking attitude and, with the help of AR, are becoming better informed about the latest food industry product launches. Furthermore, AR allows for the addition of multimedia material to conventionally used mediums, including flyers, billboards and product packaging. This allows for more people to be reached and for the wants and requirements of potential consumers to be better recognized. Some of the strategies in which AR is employed are listed below:
- AR for better health: 200,000 Americans need emergency food allergy care each year. AR technology helps allergic and weight-controlling clients by illuminating food components, nutrition statistics and calories. Thus, restaurants and consumers can reduce emergency problems and calories.
- 3D visual food experience: The use of 3D virtual food can improve the dining experience for the consumer. More people will pay attention to digital theater produced using AR technology. Prior to eating their meals, patrons can play 3D games and watch 3D movies.
- Virtual taste of the menu: Providing clients with information on the ratings of the product, tastes and ingredients are time series data from seasoned consumers. Customers may select food that includes a flavor they enjoy and the layers they want.
- Hygienic food: Most of us desire to consume healthy meals that benefit our bodies. The food industry uses AR to investigate how food is manufactured and distributed. NexTech AR employs AR to demonstrate to diners how their seafood is caught and delivered from the boat to the restaurant.
- Food service training: Training staff to cook, learn new recipes and provide outstanding customer service are all areas where AR may help. Workers in the food service industry might potentially benefit from using AR to fix broken equipment and boost output.
Challenges to AR’s mass adoption in the food industry
The figure above illustrates the obstacles to the widespread use of AR in the business of food, despite the projected exponential growth of the industry.
Despite these challenges, AR has the potential to revolutionize several facets of the food sector, and the technology is increasingly being used in the food industry to provide clients with novel experiences. Customers may get more out of their dining experiences than just scrumptious meals thanks to the technology that facilitates interaction between the restaurant and its patrons.
(Browse suppliers of AR systems on GlobalSpec.com)
Conclusion
To maintain competitiveness, the food sector must rapidly adopt Industry 4.0 technology and it is a prime candidate for the application of AR technology. Benefits may be maximized by keeping up with client preferences and providing perishable goods quickly. With the advent of AR, however, the food sector may make use of new ways to solve old problems and expand its operations. It facilitates simple communication with clients and the efficient use of scarce resources. As more food businesses use AR for operations, marketing, and other areas, AR will soon be widely employed in the food sector.
