Nestlé R&D has announced an innovative partnership with IBM Research to create tools leveraging artificial intelligence and advanced technology aimed at developing new breakthroughs. As part of this collaboration, the companies have introduced a generative AI tool designed to identify novel high-barrier packaging materials pertinent to food and beverage packaging.
To develop this tool, experts utilized AI-based processing techniques to construct a comprehensive knowledge base of known materials sourced from both public and proprietary documents. A fit-for-purpose chemical language model was fine-tuned based on this robust knowledge base, enabling it to effectively learn the representation of the molecular structures of these materials.
The team then employed a cutting-edge regression transformer developed by IBM Research to uncover the correlation between key structural molecular features and their resulting physical-chemical properties. As a result, the model can now propose innovative high-barrier packaging materials that effectively shield products from moisture, temperature fluctuations, and oxygen. Nestlé intends to leverage this technology to identify future packaging materials while also considering factors such as cost, recyclability, and functionality.
“We do believe that generative AI will continue to disrupt scientific discovery, impacting the core business of all knowledge-based industries, allowing critical differentiation and sustainable growth,” said Alessandro Curioni, IBM Research VP Europe & Africa.
“Leading the digital transformation”
This new technology aligns with Nestlé’s commitment to reducing the use of virgin plastics by shifting toward alternative materials and innovative technologies in food and beverage packaging. The company aims to adopt recyclable mono-material and paper-based solutions. However, this transition requires identifying materials that satisfy the specific needs of each product while ensuring adherence to food safety and quality standards.
In recent years, Nestlé has aimed to enhance sustainability by launching plant-based food options. For instance, in March, the company opened a new facility in Serbia dedicated to producing its Garden Gourmet products. Nevertheless, Nestlé is also reducing its workforce at its Czech facility due to decreased demand for meat alternatives.
“This novel AI-powered language model, developed in collaboration with IBM Research, illustrates how Nestlé is leading the digital transformation within the food and beverage industry,” said Nestlé Chief Technology Officer Stefan Palzer. “In the future, such breakthrough technology could be used to optimize the development of more sustainable packaging solutions across product categories.”
