AI-Driven Modeling and Optimization in Food Formulation and Emerging Processing Technologies

Artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and advanced optimization approaches are rapidly transforming food science and technology by enabling data-driven process optimization, intelligent food formulation strategies, sustainability-oriented production systems, and predictive modeling of complex food matrices. Simultaneously, emerging food processing technologies such as ultrasound, thermosonication, pulsed electric fields, cold plasma, ohmic heating, high-pressure processing, and hybrid non-thermal systems are gaining increasing attention due to their ability to preserve nutritional quality, enhance bioactive compounds, improve resource efficiency, and reduce energy consumption.The integration of AI-based modeling approaches with innovative food processing technologies provides unprecedented opportunities for improving functionality, sensory characteristics, nutritional value, sustainability, and production efficiency in modern food systems. Techniques such as artificial neural networks (ANN), adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference systems (ANFIS), response surface methodology (RSM), deep learning, digital twins, metaheuristic optimization algorithms, and explainable AI are increasingly being applied to complex food formulation and processing operations.This Research Topic aims to provide an interdisciplinary platform for researchers working on intelligent modeling, optimization, and digital transformation in food science and technology. The Topic will focus on novel computational approaches, predictive analytics, and AI-supported optimization strategies applied to food formulation, emerging processing technologies, sustainability, preservation of bioactive compounds, and smart food production systems.Potential themes include, but are not limited to:• AI-driven optimization in food formulation and processing• Machine learning and deep learning applications in food systems• Artificial neural networks, ANFIS, and predictive modeling approaches• Metaheuristic optimization algorithms for food engineering applications• Digital twins and smart manufacturing in the food industry• Predictive modeling of nutritional and bioactive properties• AI-assisted development of functional and fortified foods• Intelligent sensory evaluation and consumer preference modeling• Sustainable food processing technologies supported by AI• Hybrid and non-thermal food processing technologies• Data-driven process optimization and shelf-life modeling• AI applications in fermentation and bioprocess optimization• Smart packaging and intelligent monitoring systems• Big data analytics and explainable AI in food science• Sustainable and resource-efficient food production systemsThis Research Topic welcomes original research articles, reviews, mini-reviews, perspectives, and methodological studies that contribute to the advancement of intelligent, sustainable, and AI-supported food production technologies. Topic editors: Seydi Yıkmış, Eduard Petlenkov, Abdullah Ates, OKAN LEVENT, Tugba Aktar Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/81796/ai-driven-modeling-and-optimization-in-food-formulation-and-emerging-processing-technologies