Nestlé is collaborating with IBM Research to create advanced tools that harness AI and advanced technology to develop a generative AI system capable of discovering innovative high-barrier packaging materials.
Nestlé noted that its research and development team is actively working to decrease its reliance on new plastic, exploring alternative materials and innovative technologies, and shifting towards recyclable single-material and paper-based options.
Researchers from Nestlé and IBM used AI-driven techniques to compile a comprehensive database of known materials, sourced from both public and proprietary records.
The team then refined a chemical language model using this curated dataset, enabling it to interpret the structure of molecules.
Leveraging IBM Research’s recently developed regression transformer, the scientists identified relationships between key molecular characteristics and their resulting physical and chemical properties.
This advanced model can now reportedly suggest entirely new high-barrier packaging materials designed to protect delicate products from moisture, temperature changes, and oxygen exposure.
Nestlé intends to apply this technology to explore future packaging solutions, considering factors such as cost, recyclability, and performance.
The company is also increasingly utilising AI, machine learning, data science, and automation to foster innovation and address operational challenges.
Nestlé CTO Stefan Palzer said: “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.
“In the future, such breakthrough technology could be used to optimise the development of more sustainable packaging solutions across product categories.”
The company recently unveiled plans for a new research and development centre focused on deep technology, reportedly marking a first in the food and nutrition industry.
This centre will evaluate, test, and develop next-generation sensors, robotics, coding systems, advanced AI, and virtual or mixed reality technologies to boost efficiency in research, innovation, and operations.
IBM Research Europe & Africa vice-president Alessandro Curioni said: “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.”
In April this year, Berry Global partnered with Nestlé Purina PetCare to launch treat canisters composed of recycled material.
