Innovation and Disruption in the Food Supply Chain

With global food demand projected to rise by 50% by 2050, the food industry must prepare to meet this challenge. While increasing production may seem necessary, focusing on efficient fertilization, optimized logistics routes, and improved infrastructure can reduce waste and boost overall efficiency.

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reports that over one-third of the food produced globally is wasted, leading to significant economic, environmental, and social consequences. In Mexico alone, over 10,000t of food are wasted annually, representing 37% of the country's agricultural production. This waste costs over MX$100 billion, undermining soil health and contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. If recovered, this wasted food could feed 7.4 million people in Mexico facing extreme poverty and food insecurity.

Cecilia Valdés, Head of Innovation and Sustainability for Mexico and Central America, Yara, emphasized that a significant portion of food waste occurs at the farm level, often due to overproduction or produce not meeting market standards. "Addressing these challenges is crucial to reducing waste and improving efficiency. At Yara, our ambition is to grow a nature-positive food future through low-carbon crop nutrition solutions that drive meaningful change across the agricultural sector," says Valdés.

The food supply chain is a complex network encompassing all stages from production to consumption. Soil quality, water availability, sustainable practices, and logistics all play vital roles in ensuring food reaches consumers safely and efficiently. Valdés highlighted that Yara helps farmers enhance crop productivity, optimize resource efficiency, and promote sustainable farming practices to meet market standards and adapt to evolving challenges.

Key strategies include:

• Maximizing Crop Health. Supporting root development and healthy growth to minimize losses and ensure stable yields.

• Enhancing Yield Quality. Improving crop size, firmness, and nutritional content to meet market demands.

• Extending Post-Harvest Life. Applying specific nutrients to extend shelf life, reducing food waste and increasing profitability.

• Optimizing Irrigation and Nutrient Use. Promoting efficient irrigation and nutrient application to maximize resources and improve soil health.

• Boosting Climate Resilience With Biostimulants. Strengthening crops against climate challenges, especially in water-scarce areas.

• Advancing Regenerative Agriculture. Reinforcing soil health through nutrient reintegration to support long-term sustainable farming.

Regarding industry trends, Greg Janzow, Director of Food Safety, The Haskell Company, noted that the food manufacturing sector is increasingly shifting away from greenfield projects in favor of optimizing existing facilities. While this strategy offers financial benefits, it also presents significant challenges, such as potential food safety risks and contamination. “These concerns require careful management to maintain strict operational standards, protect product integrity, and ensure the overall reliability of the food supply chain.”

Janzow explained that the Haskell Company is engaged in sanitation projects in the United States and Mexico, in Aguascalientes and Tijuana. “One of our innovations is an AI-driven Clean-in-Place (CIP) system, which automatically adjusts sanitation processes based on product types, minimizing water, steam, and chemical usage while maintaining hygiene and production standards. This technology advances food safety, refrigeration, and sanitation, contributing to a more sustainable and efficient future for food manufacturing.”

Janzow also emphasized the importance of advanced technology in enhancing storage, transportation, and traceability across the supply chain. Automation solutions like pallet conveyors and RFID labels streamline operations and reduce errors. Additionally, advancements in refrigeration are improving cycle times, efficiency, and adaptability, particularly in rural areas. However, transitioning to alternative refrigerants presents both progress and challenges, requiring a balance between sustainability, efficiency, and regulatory compliance.

In addition to technological advancements, human input continues to play a critical role in the industry. Janzow emphasized that product quality begins at the farm level."The Haskell Company offers education programs designed to help producers enhance their production processes." Valdés further explained that to meet evolving consumer needs, Yara also collaborates with food companies to align demand with farmers' capabilities. "We utilize sensor-based weather forecasts and other data sources to ensure production aligns with demand, particularly in the face of climate uncertainty."