Artificial Intelligence in Food Science and Nutrition

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Omnivore

Episode Description

In this special edition of SciDish, recorded live at the Hot Topics Studio stage at IFT FIRST, we're exploring Artificial Intelligence in Food Science and Nutrition: Applications in Academia and Industry, sponsored by IFT Scientific Journals. Moderating the discussion is Richard Hartel, editor in chief of the Journal of Food Science and professor at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. He's joined by Chang Chen, assistant professor at Cornell University and editorial board member of Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety, and James Kennedy, computational science discipline lead at Mars. Drawing on perspectives from both academia and industry, their discussion explores the opportunities, challenges, and future applications of AI that could shape the next generation of food innovation.

Plus: This episode of Omnivore is brought to you by CoDeveloper, from IFT. CoDeveloper is the first AI-powered co-scientist built BY food scientists FOR food scientists, and leverages IFT's 85+ years of scientific excellence – accelerating your R&D processes and helping solve your toughest challenges. Learn more and book your free demo at CoDeveloper.IFT.org.

Featured Guests

Richard W. Hartel PhD

Richard W. Hartel, PhD, is a professor of food engineering with the Department of Food Science at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He conducts research on phase transitions in foods, primarily sugar confections, chocolate, and ice cream. In the past, Richard served as editor-in-chief for both Food Reviews International and the Journal of the American Oil Chemist’s Society. He is currently editor-in-chief of the Journal of Food Science.
Chen Chang Assistant Professor

Chen Chang is assistant professor of postharvest technologies at Cornell AgriTech, Food Science Department, Cornell University.
James Kennedy Computational Science Competency Leader

James Kennedy is computational science discipline lead at Mars Inc.

Omnivore

IFT’s Omnivore and Omnivore Presents: SciDish podcasts spark lively, thought-provoking conversations with the science, business, and regulatory leaders shaping the future of food. Each episode delivers sharp analysis, practical insights, and bold ideas designed to challenge assumptions, ignite innovation, and energize your work across the global food system.

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