Ag tech and food tech are transforming the way we grow, produce, and consume food. With innovations ranging from AI-powered farming to precision fermentation, these technologies are addressing major environmental, economic, and societal challenges in the food supply chain.

Let’s take a look at some of the trends that have been emerging in recent years. 

Precision fermentation and Biomanufacturing 

Precision fermentation and biomanufacturing are revolutionizing food processing, particularly in dairy and meat alternatives. By using microorganisms to produce proteins and other key ingredients, these innovations significantly reduce the carbon footprint of traditional animal agriculture. Want to know more about this, read what experts had to say about this during our panel discussion in November 2024: https://chicagolandfood.org/sys/website/system-pages/?pageId=18010 . 

The Evolution of Ag Tech

Ag Tech is not new – concepts like Smart Farming and Precision Farming have been around for years. Farmers have long used data-driven systems like and GIS to optimize efficiency, reducing fertilizer and pesticide use, and increase yields. In 2019, the USDA reported that 40% of U.S. farms and ranchland acreage used GPS applications. 

The data driven trend continues to grow, as shown by the recent announcement of agricultural machinery manufacturer, John Deere, starting a collaboration with several startups to advance technology of their products. These companies bring expertise in AI and space technology and are developing solutions such as 3D earth mapping and worksite automation to enhance safety and productivity. 

AI and Robotics in Agriculture and Food Production 

When talking about technological innovations, it is impossible not to mention AI and robotics. AI and robotics are playing an increasingly important role across the food supply chain. From sorting and grading crops to autonomous seeding and weeding, AI-driven automation is improving efficiency. Food manufacturers are also leveraging AI to optimize supply chains, ensuring fresher products and reduced waste.  

A Glimpse into the Future: Oishii’s Smart Farming 

For Example, Oishii, a company known for its premium vertically farmed strawberries, possibly incorporates many facets of ag tech and food tech. Using AI and robotics in controlled environments, Oishii produces berries that are pesticide free, with enhanced flavor, redefining what’s possible in modern farming. 

Is 2025 the Year We “Cross the Chasm”? 

While many of these technologies – AI, robotics, precision farming, precision fermentation – have been around for years, their applications in agriculture and food production continue to expand and evolve. As these technologies gain acceptance, is 2025 the year when things will really begin to change? It will be important to watch this continually evolving space.

Want to know more? 

World Business Chicago published a Chicago Business Bulletin in May 2023 about Innovation in Chicago’s Food Industry.  https://worldbusinesschicago.com/app/uploads/2023/05/CBB-Issue-11_INNOVATION-IN-CHICAGOS-FOOD-INDUSTRY.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com   

The Chicago Council on Global Affairs published a White Paper in April 2024, called Bridging the Gap: Accelerating Technology Adoption for Sustainable Food Production. https://globalaffairs.org/sites/default/files/2024-04/BTG-RT2-April2024.pdf