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At the Food Manufacturing Summit panel session, experts emphasized the importance of scenario planning, visibility, and traceability in food supply chains. These foundational capabilities are essential in an industry where product quality and shelf life are paramount.
Data quality is highlighted as a crucial factor in food manufacturing, with technology playing a key role in mitigating supply chain issues through demand planning, network models, and other strategic tools, as noted by Mihir Tamhankar, principal at Kearney.
“It’s not just about visibility into your own supply chain,” added Dheera Anand, partner at Bain & Co. “You want upstream and downstream integration, utilizing technologies for end-to-end orchestration.”
Here are four technology tools being implemented by food manufacturing brands:
1. Digital twins
Digital twin technology is gaining traction among food manufacturers, offering a simulated view of the end-to-end supply chain network to analyze disruptions in real-time and adapt to challenges effectively.
2. RFID
Enhancing visibility, RFID technology and sensors play a crucial role in providing real-time information on stock availability, inventory location, and shelf life status.
3. Cold chain
Investments in cold chain capabilities can help maintain the quality and shelf life of perishable goods like fresh produce and protein, ensuring safe transportation and storage.
4. Planning systems
Food manufacturers are upgrading their planning systems to make real-time inventory decisions more effectively, enhancing overall supply chain management.