Pushing the Frontiers of Food Safety Using AI Featuring Dr. Wesam Al-Jeddawi

In the latest episode of Food Tech Talk, Lydia Adams sits down with Dr. Wesam Al-Jeddawi, Executive Director of Laboratory Services at Core Catalyst Food Sciences, to discuss the transformative role of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain in the food safety ecosystem.

Advancements in AI and Machine Learning

Significant strides have been made in artificial intelligence and machine learning over the past few years as most are aware of, and Dr. Al-Jeddawi highlights how these technologies are evolving at a rapid pace. 

In many industries, the key value-creation tool is anything that can automate previously manual tasks to a similar or even improved degree of accuracy. Saving time and money is vital in business, but Dr. Al-Jeddawi is not focused solely in this area. The food industry sees the more nuanced potential of AI to move the needle on safety.

He cites a recent study by the University of California, Davis which showcases how AI and optical imaging can rapidly and accurately identify harmful bacteria, including Salmonella, thus preventing foodborne outbreaks.

Technology like this is where the business side of industry transformation and the deeply held desire of people like Dr. Wesam to make food safer for everybody, cross over. That’s because AI’s effectiveness in this case could provide a real cost-effective and quick-acting alternative to traditional means of food analysis. And the more cost-effective these solutions are, the quicker they will move into the mainstream.

Extending Shelf Lives to Keep Food Safer

Dr. Al-Jeddawi is excited to discuss even more innovative techniques that he believes could alter the outlook of food safety. He cites another example aimed at extending perishable food items' shelf lives. 

He was involved in a study at Clemson University, and the research demonstrated that storing salmon at -7°C, instead of -18°C (which is conventional), significantly extends the shelf life, while reducing energy consumption.

This is another example of safety and business interests crossing over in a way that can only progress the food industry toward the mission that Wesam is eagerly pursuing. The finding has plenty of practical implications for both consumers and the food industry, because crucially, there is no suggestion of any compromise on quality, and this could be relevant to more seafood.

Dr. Al-Jeddawi references other methods, such as high-pressure-processing (HPP) and modified atmosphere packaging, which can prolong the freshness of fruits, vegetables and dairy products by inhibiting microbial growth.

The Importance of Air Quality in Food Preservation

Air quality is a critical but often overlooked element of food safety. But not by Dr. Al-Jeddawi who highlights its importance in food processing environments. He explains that compressed air, typically used in food production, can be a source of contamination if not properly filtered. Contaminated air can introduce harmful microorganisms into food products, posing a significant risk to consumers. 

Dr. Al-Jeddawi advocates for the use of advanced air filtration systems and regular testing to ensure that the air quality meets safety standards. He also mentions that maintaining a clean and controlled environment is essential for preventing spoilage and extending shelf life. 

In his view, by seriously addressing these environmental factors, the food industry can significantly reduce the risk of contamination and enhance overall food safety. Dr. Al-Jeddawi's advice to new entrants into the space is similarly focused. He is clear that there must be a collaborative and proactive attitude to not only update the technology within the food industry but to refresh the attitudes and cultures within food companies.

His expertise is a valuable resource, sitting as he does, at the intersection of food science, technology and the sheer determination to improve the world.

Who is Dr. Wesam Al-Jeddawi?

Dr. Wesam Al-Jeddawi is the Executive Director of Laboratory Services at Core Catalyst Food Sciences and he is an industry professional driven equally by a deep-rooted sense of fairness and care and a belief in the power of scientific innovation to advance food safety standards. 

His background is in food science, microbiology, safety and quality control and when he spoke to Lydia Adams on the latest episode of Food Tech Talk, he shared much from his journey. An area of particularly strong focus for Dr. Al-Jeddawi is the potential for emerging technologies like blockchain and AI to revolutionize the current food safety ecosystem.

There are plenty of challenges and obstacles along the way, but as well as promoting the uptake of these ever-growing and improving technologies, Dr. Al-Jeddawi is full of hope and advice for the next generation of professionals entering the industry.

Check out the full podcast episode via the links below. Be sure to subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Apple -  https://apple.co/3XWFrcq 
Spotify - https://spoti.fi/3RYwsnc