Artificial Intelligence in the Food Industry: Adoption, Technologies, Barriers – The Example of Poland

The aim of the study was to determine the degree of use of AI technology in the food industry in Poland and to identify key barriers related to its implementation. The analysis is based on data collected in the official statistics of the Central Statistical Office in Poland and includes enterprises involved in the production of food products, production of beverages and production of tobacco products, with at least 10 employees. Using the Polish example, this work provides insight into the specifics of AI adoption in the food industry, identifying both the potential and challenges facing its further development. Based on the analysis of trends from 2021-2024, the study presents prospects for the future development of AI in this key sector for the economy. The analysis of the collected material indicates that the use of AI in the Polish food industry is increasing, but often involves the use of ready-made commercial solutions. The development of own technologies is less common. The predominant AI technology being implemented in the food industry is that of process automation and decision support, with the use of technologies such as natural language generation and voice recognition increasing. AI technologies are most often implemented in areas related to business management. The prospects for the development of AI in the Polish food industry are positive. However, the pace and scope of this development will largely depend on the ability to overcome existing barriers, especially those related to the lack of human resources and knowledge, high costs, IT infrastructure, and the regulation of legal regulations regarding the implementation and use of AI technologies in business.