Intelligent control systems and artificial intelligence in the bakery industry: current state and development prospects

Abstract

The article is devoted to the analysis of the application of intelligent control systems (ICS) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in the bakery industry. The key directions of the introduction of ICS and AI at various stages of the production process are considered – from quality control of raw materials to logistics management of finished products. Based on a review of current research, the main trends in the digitalization of the industry are highlighted, related to the use of automated monitoring systems, demand forecasting, optimization of recipes and baking modes. The aim of the work is to systematize the experience of using ICS and AI in baking and to assess the potential of these technologies to increase the efficiency and competitiveness of industry enterprises. The methodological basis of the study is a comparative analysis of the cases of the introduction of ICS and AI in the bakery industry in different countries. The empirical database includes data on 112 bakery digitalization projects from 2018 to 2023, collected through questionnaires and interviews with company representatives. The results of the analysis show that the introduction of ISU and AI makes it possible to reduce production losses by an average of 12.5%, energy consumption by 9.8%, while increasing labor productivity by 15.3% and improving the forecast accuracy of sales planning to 94.6%. At the same time, the key barriers remain the high cost of solutions (noted in 78% of cases) and the shortage of qualified personnel (69%). The results obtained confirm the significant potential of using ICS and AI for the transformation of the bakery industry. At the same time, to fully realize this potential, it is necessary to develop more accessible technological solutions and staff training programs. The prospects for further research are related to the study of the synergetic effect of integrating ISU and AI with other innovative technologies - the Internet of Things, robotics, 3D printing of food products.