Chief Executive of SMEFUNDS, Femi Oye, said harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) can help transform the food sector.
According to him, AI can help address pressing challenges such as hunger, waste, and sustainability, despite its slow adoption in the industry.
“The overarching objective is to foster greener kitchen environments and enhance sustainability within commercial kitchen operations through the integration of modern technology,” Oye explained.
He emphasized the need for sustainable food production, particularly as the population grows, and highlighted AI’s potential to minimize environmental impact, enhance nutritional quality, and bolster food security.
He noted that AI systems can assist managers with labor and inventory management, schedule optimization, and even suggest operational adjustments based on competitor activity.
He revealed that SMEFUNDS is also working with food industry operators to explore and implement cutting-edge kitchen technologies, including the adoption of AI and Internet of Things (IoT) systems.
These innovations aim to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance food safety.
One notable example is Kike AI, an AI-driven kitchen application launched by SMEFUNDS. This app can alert households when their gas supply is running low, helping them manage their gas consumption more effectively.
Oye highlighted that Kike AI is designed to bridge the digital gap, empowering women and marginalized populations to showcase their culinary talents and earn a living.
By integrating AI into the food sector, Oye envisions a more efficient, resilient, and sustainable food future.
“We are looking at solutions not only from a sustainability and environmental perspective but also considering their impact on profitability,” he said.
