AI in the Fresh Produce Industry

The recent IFPA Think Tank convened a diverse array of stakeholders from the fresh produce sector, including growers, technology providers, and consultants, to tackle the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in agriculture. The event aimed to establish clear pathways for AI adoption, identify real-world applications, and address the challenges facing the industry.

Sponsored by

Fresh Produce Industry Key Goals Related AI

Number 1

Define actionable strategies for integrating AI into the food sector.

Number 2

Assess the industry's appetite for risk and innovation in AI deployment.

Number 3

Collect use cases to inspire confidence and encourage broader adoption.

Number 4

Outline measurable success criteria for AI implementation over the next 2–3 years.

Number 5

Address future challenges and opportunities for AI in agriculture.

Download our AI Guide

Implementing AI at Your Organization:
A Guide for C-Suite and Senior Executive Leadership

Main Insights

Unleashing AI's Potential
The group highlighted AI’s ability to revolutionize the fresh produce industry, focusing on applications that could streamline processes, improve efficiency, and foster innovation. The discussion underscored how AI could not only enhance IFPA’s role but also redefine agricultural practices by optimizing crop production and improving supply chain operations.
Risk Tolerance and Knowledge Gaps
Participants expressed varying levels of comfort with AI adoption, from enthusiasm for bold innovation to cautious optimism. These differences highlighted the need for strategies to balance risk while enabling industry-wide adoption.
Addressing Concerns and Seizing Opportunities

Key Concerns:

Data Privacy and Ethics: Stakeholders emphasized the need for transparent governance to manage AI-driven data collection responsibly.
Sector-Specific Models: Tailored AI tools designed specifically for agricultural applications are essential to ensure relevance and effectiveness.

Key Opportunities:

Operational Efficiency: AI offers tools to enhance decision-making, optimize farm management, and solve labor and resource challenges.

Building AI Literacy
Participants agreed on the importance of equipping stakeholders with the knowledge to harness AI effectively. Suggested initiatives included:
- Online learning platforms.
- Hands-on experimentation with AI tools.
Core AI Applications in Agriculture
- Data Utilization: High-quality data underpins AI’s success in agriculture. Tools like crop monitoring systems depend on accurate datasets for predictive insights.
- Complementary Technologies: Machine vision and robotics can enhance AI's capabilities, from automating harvests to monitoring crop health.
- Genomics: AI is transforming crop breeding by integrating genomic, environmental, and climate data to develop resilient and sustainable crops.
Transforming the Supply Chain
AI’s impact extends to supply chain management, with applications including:
- Anomaly Detection: Identifying irregularities to prevent disruptions.
- Financial Optimization: Streamlining cash flow and operational costs.
- Market Forecasting: Predicting price trends for better planning and profitability.
Labor Optimization
AI tools can revolutionize workforce management, particularly for labor-intensive tasks like harvesting. These tools can improve resource allocation, enhancing both productivity and sustainability.
Defining Success Metrics
The group established key success indicators for AI in agriculture:
- Broad adoption across the fresh produce sector.
- Tangible gains in efficiency and decision-making.
- Seamless integration of AI tools with existing systems.
Preparation for AI Integration
Actionable steps for successful AI adoption include:
- Investing in in-house AI expertise and training programs.
- Collecting and organizing relevant agricultural data.
- Collaborating closely with AI developers to align tools with real-world agricultural needs.
Expanding Stakeholder Engagement
Participants stressed the importance of involving additional stakeholders, such as supply chain experts, business analysts, and leading AI companies like OpenAI and Meta, to bridge the gap between technology and agriculture.
Governance and Change Management
Clear policies and effective change management strategies emerged as critical components for AI adoption. These measures will mitigate resistance, ensuring smooth integration and long-term success.

Next Steps

To build momentum, IFPA will prioritize the following to promote AI in the Fresh Produce Industry

Ongoing collaboration between agriculture stakeholders and AI developers.

Development of tools and resources to guide members through AI adoption.

Expanding educational initiatives to prepare the industry for AI-driven transformation.

As the fresh produce industry evolves, IFPA remains committed to helping its members harness AI’s potential. By fostering innovation and addressing challenges head-on, the industry can leverage AI to transform agricultural practices, optimize supply chains, and promote sustainability.

Stay connected for updates on IFPA’s initiatives to lead AI adoption and innovation in agriculture.

AI Think Tank Participants

Adam Greenberg

Co-Founder & CEO
IUNU

Agustin Lacayo

VP, Global Operations
Mission Produce Inc.

Brad Zamft

CEO
Heritable Agriculture

Daniel Kurdys

Global Business Lead
GENAI - Bayer Crop Science

Genevieve Wang

Chief Product Officer
GrubMarket Inc.

Justin Parnell

Head of Operations & Software Marketing
GrubMarket AI Software

Laura Greenaway

Data Strategist
Lipman Family Farms

Matthew Hoffman

Plant Health Technology Lead
R&D - Driscoll's

Max Teplitski

Chief Science Officer
International Fresh Produce Association

Robert Grey

Director, Sustainable Future
Plug and Play Tech Center

Ryan Bolduan

Chief Product Officer
The Yield Technology Solutions

Scott Gerard

Founder and Chief AI Officer
KnowledgeReactor

Steve Mantle

Founder
innov8.ag

Thuan Ngo

VP, Data & Software Services
ZAG Technical Services

Tim Rabon

Executive Director, Business Operations,
Food Safety & Human Resources
WP Rawl

Vonnie Estes

VP, AgFood Tech Innovation
International Fresh Produce Association