Ai-driven shelf-life prediction and extension with digital twins
Our solution integrates AI-driven predictions with physics-informed digital twins to simulate food quality changes, reducing stability test reliance and accelerating innovation. It predicts shelf-life performance and recommends formulation or packaging adjustments.
Overview
This innovative solution combines AI-driven shelf-life prediction with physics-informed digital twins to virtually simulate and predict changes in food quality. By leveraging machine learning and Physics-Informed Neural Networks (PINNs), it models key degradation pathways such as oxidation, vitamin loss, moisture migration, and microbial growth. This integration allows for accurate shelf-life predictions across various formulations, processing methods, packaging, and storage conditions, thereby reducing the need for lengthy stability tests and enabling the rapid development of more sustainable food products.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Uses AI and PINNs to simulate food degradation pathways
- Predicts shelf-life based on product composition and environmental data
- Incorporates packaging barrier properties for comprehensive predictions
- Validated digital twins for reliable modeling under real-world conditions
Applications:
- Predictive modeling for food shelf-life extension
- Data-driven design of more sustainable packaging options
- Accelerated innovation in food product development
Technology readiness level
This technology is at TRL 5, indicating that it has been validated in a relevant environment. The next steps involve further data collection, model development, validation against real stability test data, and deployment through an interactive decision-support interface.
About Wageningen University and Research
Wageningen University & Research is a life sciences–focused public university combined with mission-driven research institutes, integrating fundamental, applied, and field-based R&D at scale. On Wageningen Campus, companies co-locate with WUR teams and use shared pilot plants, advanced analytical labs, and controlled‑environment facilities for rapid prototyping. Being in the Food Valley cluster provides tight links to global corporates, SMEs, and startups through living labs and a strong regional talent pipeline. Research is backed by competitive funding from the Dutch Research Council, European Union programs, and national ministries, alongside significant contract research for industry. A dedicated technology transfer office and campus incubators streamline IP, licensing, and spin‑out formation for corporate partners and entrepreneurs.
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