This archive report was first published on 10 January 2020.
Las Vegas, January 10, 2020 - The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) has long been a platform for showcasing the latest in technology and innovation. This year, however, the event has taken a culinary turn, with food and tech coming together in exciting ways.
One of the most talked-about innovations at CES is the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in meal planning and preparation. GE Appliances, a division of China's Haier, unveiled its smart hub integrated into a microwave, which uses AI to analyze food in a consumer's refrigerator and make recipe suggestions.
"You can see all the food you have and get a recommendation (for recipes), to cut down on waste," said GE's Jeremy Miller.
Another innovation on display is the "Julia" cooking bot, unveiled by Hong Kong-based CookingPal. This appliance can suggest recipes based on what's in the fridge and then handle much of the preparation, including weighing, chopping, kneading, and cooking in a single, tabletop device.
"Everyone hates to chop the onions," said Anna Khomenko, marketing manager for CookingPal, adding that the new robot can help streamline kitchens by performing functions of several appliances.
Impossible Foods, the maker of plant-based meat substitutes, also made its second CES appearance, introducing its Impossible Pork, which is fully vegetarian.
"Impossible Foods cracked meat's molecular code -- starting with ground beef, which is intrinsic to the American market. Now we're accelerating the expansion of our product portfolio to more of the world's favourite foods," said chief executive Patrick Brown.
IBM showcased how it uses blockchain to ensure integrity of the food supply at every stage, unveiling an app that traces coffee beans back to the growers.
