“Artificial intelligence for food safety – A literature synthesis, real-world applications and regulatory frameworks”

A new technical report by FAO and Wageningen Food Safety Research offers a global overview of artificial intelligence (AI) in food safety. Reviewing 141 recent scientific publications, it highlights practical applications of AI in laboratory testing, inspections, border controls, and risk communication, with examples from both high- and low-resource settings. The report also evaluates governance frameworks and stresses the need for high-quality datasets and improved AI literacy, especially in public sector agencies. Despite enthusiasm, the study notes data and capacity gaps in many food safety authorities, making responsible, well-managed AI adoption essential for risk-based prevention.
The publication draws from discussions at an FAO global seminar on November 6, 2024, which brought together 1,023 participants from 107 countries to share experiences and challenges using AI for food safety. As technology develops, FAO will continue to help countries adopt responsible AI solutions to reduce foodborne risks, optimize regulatory efforts, and strengthen food safety worldwide.
Latest Reports, scientific publications
Science and Communication as the Foundation of Food Safety
Traceability in the Feed and Food chain–General Principles and basic requirements for System Design and Implementation
Research infrastructures as engines of integration for micro‑ and nanomaterial research: a European perspective inspired by FHERITALE
Tools and methods to support the design and implementation of policies for agrifood systems transformation
Overview Report on the outcome of a survey in Member States in 2025 on Food Safety Culture official controls
New EU labelling requirements
Most Interesting Reports, scientific publications
Food safety foresight: approaches to identify future food safety issues
Digital Net-Map tool for multi-stakeholder networks in Food Safety Risk Analysis
Food Drink Europe’s Data & Trends 2024 Report