Assessment of advancements and applications of robotics, artificial intelligence, and automated technology in the modern food sector

The global food sector is under pressure to enhance production efficiency, safety, and quality due to growing consumer demands, labour shortages, and regulatory requirements. These challenges have driven the adoption of advanced technologies like robotics and AI. The food sector includes many operations, including manufacturing, processing, shipment, distribution, formation, conservation, and food service. The review paper explores the profound influence of robotics in various segments of the food enterprises, highlighting its applications across production, processing, packaging, and service stages. The main objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of how robotics, AI, and automation are transforming food industry operations and addressing key challenges across the value chain. While various studies have explored specific robotics applications in food systems, few offer a holistic, cross-sectoral perspective that links robotics, AI, and automation technologies across different food categories and processing stages. Key findings include improved production efficiency, enhanced food safety, reduced labour dependency, and strengthened quality assurance driven by robotics and AI. Notably, collaborative robots (co-bots) are redefining human-robot interaction by working safely alongside humans to optimize workflow and productivity. This convergence of technologies is driving transformation in major food sectors such as dairy, meat, seafood, beverages, fruits, and vegetables, ensuring quality standards and operational excellence throughout the supply chain. The implications of this technological shift are substantial. Robotics and AI provide effective solutions to persistent industry challenges, including labour shortages and process variability, while laying the groundwork for a more resilient, data-driven, and intelligent food system. Unlike previous works that focus on specific tools or segments, this review distinguishes itself by examining the synergistic integration of robotics, AI, and automation across multiple food sectors. As industry demands continue to evolve, these technologies will remain central to enhancing efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness in the global food landscape.