Atlante
News
Artificial Intelligence in the Fight Against Food Waste: Between Innovation and Sustainability
5 March 2025
In today’s landscape, marked by a growing focus on sustainability and social responsibility, combating food waste has become one of the top priorities for the agri-food sector. Among emerging solutions, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in expiry date management is rapidly taking centre stage, offering sophisticated tools to optimise the distribution and use of food products.
A Global Challenge and the Need for Innovation
Food waste is a widespread issue, both environmentally and economically. According to the latest Waste Watcher International Report, Italy wasted 45.6% more food than in 2023. A significant portion of global production is lost along the entire supply chain, from production to distribution and final consumption. This inefficiency negatively impacts the planet through excessive exploitation of natural resources and increased greenhouse gas emissions, while also causing serious economic consequences for businesses and communities.
In this context, the adoption of advanced technologies presents itself as a tangible solution. Artificial intelligence, in particular, enables real-time monitoring of product conditions and predictive analysis of their evolution by assessing variables such as remaining shelf life, storage conditions, and consumption trends. These predictive systems can process vast amounts of data, learning from historical models and environmental conditions, and suggest targeted interventions to optimise the lifecycle of food products.
Innovation in Expiry Date Management: Functions and Benefits
The integration of AI into expiry date management provides a range of benefits for the entire agri-food supply chain. On an operational level, continuous product monitoring allows for the timely identification of items nearing expiry, enabling targeted intervention strategies. These may include promotional actions, specific discounts, or redistribution to secondary markets, thereby reducing economic losses and promoting more efficient resource use.
For businesses, the adoption of intelligent systems allows for optimised operations, improved inventory management, and enhanced corporate reputation by demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainable and responsible practices. At the same time, for consumers, the use of advanced technologies ensures greater transparency regarding product quality and safety, encouraging more conscious and responsible purchasing behaviours.
Concrete Applications and Replicable Models
Several examples from around the world demonstrate how technological innovation is transforming food management. Specialised platforms and startups, such as Too Good To Go, have begun implementing predictive algorithms and monitoring systems that, through data processing, proactively identify products at risk of waste and enable timely intervention.
These solutions, which combine the power of artificial intelligence with big data analytics, are now considered replicable and scalable models applicable to various territorial and operational contexts. Their ability to adapt to the specific needs of different supply chain players—from producers to distributors and retailers—makes this approach particularly effective and versatile. The synergy between technological innovation and sustainable practices is thus emerging as a key driver in reducing food waste on a global scale.
Towards a More Sustainable Future
The use of artificial intelligence in expiry date management represents a decisive step towards a future where technological innovation and environmental sustainability are increasingly integrated. This evolution not only supports businesses in minimising economic losses but also raises public awareness and promotes a culture of conservation and respect for natural resources.
Digital solutions are set to become a fundamental pillar in the transformation of the agri-food supply chain, enabling continuous monitoring and dynamic product management. At a time when environmental and economic challenges require prompt and targeted action, the integration of artificial intelligence stands out as a strategic tool to ensure a more responsible and efficient use of food resources.
In a global context increasingly focused on sustainability, artificial intelligence is emerging as a key element in creating an efficient and environmentally friendly food supply chain—one that successfully combines innovation, economic viability, and the preservation of natural resources.
