Sustainable food systems have become increasingly vital as the world faces significant challenges related to climate change, population growth, and resource scarcity. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is poised to revolutionize the way we produce, process, and distribute food, offering smarter, greener, and more efficient systems. Currently led by emerging researchers such as doctoral candidates, postdocs, and early-career academics, the field is developing a wide range of innovative solutions aimed at enhancing sustainability in food systems. However, the integration of AI in these systems is complex, requiring interdisciplinary approaches and a focus on efficiency, traceability, and resource conservation.

This Research Topic aims to highlight the contributions of next-generation talent employing AI, machine learning, and automation to address key challenges in sustainable food processing and supply chains. The goal is to showcase research that is crucial for reducing waste, conserving resources, improving traceability, and enhancing overall environmental performance throughout the food lifecycle. This Research Topic will focus on employing AI-driven approaches as a foundation for sustainable innovation in the field.

To gather further insights and contribute to sustainable food systems, this research will focus on integrating AI technologies in food production and distribution settings. We welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- AI-driven optimization of food production lines

- Machine learning for real-time quality control and waste reduction

- Sustainable packaging and intelligent recipe design

- Smart, traceable, and ethical food supply chains

- AI-based life cycle assessment and predictive system control

- Use of Large Language Models (LLMs) for sustainability reporting, policy support, and compliance automation

- Smart sourcing and traceability in food supply chains using AI and blockchain

- Digital twins and cyber-physical systems for sustainable process control

- Decision-support tools and optimization models for supply chain resilience and circularity

Appendix: We invite original research articles with experimental or modelling-based insights, methodology papers presenting AI or LLM applications in sustainable food processing, reviews and conceptual papers that highlight trends, gaps, or future directions, and case studies demonstrating real-world implementation of intelligent, green solutions. All contributions should clearly articulate how the proposed solutions contribute to sustainability, efficiency, and innovation in food processing or supply systems. By emphasizing AI-driven solutions and the voices of emerging researchers, this collection aims to further the global conversation on constructing sustainable, intelligent, and equitable food systems for the future. Contributions from underrepresented regions and interdisciplinary teams are strongly encouraged.

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Pioneering AI Solutions For Sustainable Food Systems