ARTIFICIAL Intelligence ( AI ) is increasingly becoming a critical tool for growth in various industries , but it also brings significant risks , particularly for food and agriculture companies . ADM , a leading player in the industry , has highlighted several potential pitfalls associated with AI in its latest annual report . Generative AI , a rapidly evolving technology , is transforming industries by automating complex tasks and driving innovation . However , with these advancements come new challenges .
According to a recent survey conducted by Arize , a technology platform , nearly 20 per cent of Fortune 500 companies have mentioned generative AI or large language models in their financial reports . Of these , approximately 70 per cent have identified AI as a potential security or competitive risk .
The industries most concerned about the impact of generative
|
AI include media , entertainment , software , technology , and telecommunications . However , other sectors , such as retail , manufacturing , and consumer packaged goods , also recognise the risks AI poses .
ADM has specifically pointed out that AI could expose the company to data privacy breaches , security threats , missed opportunities for innovation , and malicious or deceptive communications .
AI ’ S DOUBLE-EDGED SWORD
There are also concerns about potential competitive disadvantages if AI needs to be managed appropriately . Despite these risks , ADM and its competitors are leveraging generative AI to enhance research and development efforts , particularly in creating new flavours and ingredients that are time-consuming to develop .
Additionally , AI has the potential to revolutionise grain trading , with innovative language systems potentially taking over trading desk operations .
However , as Goldstein , a repre-
|
sentative from Arize , mentioned : “ I don ’ t see anything imminent that could make for potential risks ,” indicating that while the technology holds transformative potential , its risks may not be immediate .
Interestingly , while many companies , including ADM , are quick to list the risks associated with AI , this might only partially represent their overall perspective on the technology .
The Coca-Cola Company , despite being a strong advocate for AI , has
|
also expressed concerns , particularly regarding third-party service providers who may need to adhere to its governance framework on AI .
Data privacy and security remain top concerns for food and agriculture companies . A survey by Retail Economics revealed that nearly 47 per cent of food retailers view legal and regulatory challenges as significant barriers to investing in AI , further highlighting the cautious approach these industries are taking towards AI adoption .
|
NESTFRESH , a leading egg producer based in Colorado , is set to become the first in the United States to implement in-ovo sexing technology , marking a significant advancement for this innovation as it gradually gains momentum beyond Europe .
In-ovo sexing is a technology that allows the sex of a chick to be determined while it is still within the egg . This process eliminates the need to euthanise male chicks , which are traditionally culled in the industry .
Instead , male eggs are identified and removed early in the incubation process , with the byproducts being converted into protein powder or used in pet food .
The decision to adopt in-ovo sexing aligns with NestFresh ’ s commitment to humane and sustainable practices . The company has a history of pioneering changes in the egg industry , being the first national brand to offer cage-free , non-GMO , and organic eggs .
NestFresh ’ s move to integrate
|
in-ovo sexing technology is seen as a natural progression in its efforts to meet growing consumer demands for responsible animal stewardship .
TRANSFORMING THE EGG INDUSTRY
The in-ovo sexing method Nest- Fresh will use is a non-invasive approach , likely involving advanced imaging technology . This method is not only more humane but also more efficient , as it allows only female chicks to be hatched , thereby eliminating the need to euthanise male chicks shortly after birth .
Although this technology is widely utilised in Europe , where countries like Germany and Italy have already outlawed male chick culling , it has faced challenges in gaining acceptance within the US market .
NestFresh is now the third egg producer in the US to commit to adopting in-ovo sexing , yet it intends to be the first to deploy the
|
technology entirely .
The company plans to start implementing this innovation by the end of 2024 , with the first eggs produced using this method expected to reach consumers by mid-2025 .
NestFresh Executive Vice President Mike Sencer stated : “ Our adoption of in-ovo sexing technology marks a pivotal moment in the egg industry ,
“ While many companies have announced plans to adopt in-ovo
|
sexing technologies when available , NestFresh will be the first actually to implement this technology .”
Recently , Germany-based Agri Advanced Technologies announced an agreement to introduce its “ Cheggy ” in-ovo sexing system to two undisclosed US hatcheries .
Alongside NestFresh , companies like Egg Innovations and Kipster also revealed their intentions earlier this year to integrate In-ovo sexing technology into their operations .– @ AGROBiz
|