Europe’s plant-based protein sector is embracing digital innovation, using nutrient tracking and AI to optimise crop yields, reduce waste, and enhance sustainability. These insights were shared during the VELPRO Path forth webinar, part of a Horizon Europe-funded project aimed at improving plant protein production from farm to plate.
Highlights and reflections from the discussion
Dr Ricardo Uribe Alvarez of Teagasc detailed how drones equipped with near-infrared sensors monitor crop health with centimetre-level precision. “Tracking nutrients from the field to the final product helps create more sustainable systems and informs consumers about the products they consume,” he said. Healthy areas yield the most total protein, while stressed areas, although higher in protein content per plant, produce less overall. The project’s supply chain modelling tool also helps producers optimise processes and valorise side streams.
Dr George Kyriakarakos from Farm B Digital Agriculture introduced the project’s AI-powered platform, which integrates IoT sensors, satellites, and drones to provide real-time insights on soil nutrients, crop protein, and environmental conditions. “Our platform empowers farmers with actionable data to increase yields, reduce waste, and comply with sustainability standards,” he explained.
Speakers noted key adoption challenges, particularly for small-scale farmers, including high costs, limited infrastructure, complex technology, and fragmented data systems. Despite these hurdles, both experts emphasised the potential of digital tools and AI to improve efficiency, traceability, and transparency across the plant-based protein supply chain.
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