AI for Breakfast

Post 28 - From hops to AI: The digital revolution in brewing

This post was inspired by an article I found whilst researching content for this blog. It seems a British startup called IntelligentX created a beer brewed by AI which I think is pretty fascinating.

I got ChatGPT to summarise the article as follows:

IntelligentX is pioneering a unique approach in the brewing industry by using artificial intelligence (AI) to tailor beers to individual customer tastes. Founded on the principle of moving beyond mediocre, mass-produced options, the company offers a subscription service where customers can feedback on beers, which then informs AI-driven adjustments to future recipes.

While leveraging AI for customisation offers a first-mover advantage and reduces marketing costs, the scalability and profitability in a market dominated by mass production remains challenging. The article also highlights broader tech trends within the brewing industry and suggests potential paths for IntelligentX's expansion, especially in Europe, the world’s leading beer-consuming region.

For a detailed read, you can visit the article.

On looking further it seems it may not have caught on as intended as their website seems down as does their Facebook page. May be the world wasn’t ready back in 2016, makes me wonder had it been today it may be still around!

NEWSFLASH: OK, so I thought I’d just do a bit more research and given that I’m also located in Suffolk, it seems the Nethergate Brewery introduced AIPA, (great name!) in January, not seen any around but I feel the need to go and test it out at some point, more on that another time!

Here’s a link to their website with more information.

Anyway here’s ChatGPT’s take on how AI can help in brewing.

In the world of brewing, tradition meets innovation at every turn. But recently, a new player has entered the scene, promising to reshape the industry in ways we've only just begun to understand: artificial intelligence (AI). It's not about replacing the age-old techniques that give us our favourite ales and lagers; rather, AI is here to enhance, innovate, and streamline the brewing process, from the farm to the pint glass.

AI in Brewing: A perfect blend of science and art

• Quality Control: One of the most critical aspects of brewing is maintaining consistency and quality. AI can analyse data from various stages of the brewing process to ensure each batch meets the desired standards. By monitoring factors like temperature, pH levels, and fermentation activity, AI systems can predict and adjust the brewing process in real time, ensuring the perfect brew every time.

• Recipe Development and Optimisation: AI's ability to sift through vast datasets can be leveraged to create and refine beer recipes. By analysing consumer preferences, current trends, and ingredient interactions, AI can suggest recipe adjustments that might take human brewers years to perfect.

• Supply Chain Efficiency: The brewing industry relies on a complex supply chain, from sourcing ingredients to distribution. AI can forecast demand more accurately, manage inventory levels, and optimise delivery routes, reducing waste and ensuring that your favourite beer is always in stock.

• Sustainability Practices: Sustainability is a growing concern in all industries, including brewing. AI can help breweries minimise their environmental impact by optimising energy use, water consumption, and waste production. For example, machine learning algorithms can predict the most efficient use of resources, leading to less waste and lower costs.

• Enhanced Customer Experiences: Beyond the brewing process, AI is transforming how breweries interact with their customers. From personalised recommendations to virtual tastings, AI technologies are creating more engaging and customised experiences for beer enthusiasts.

The Human Element

Despite the incredible potential of AI in brewing, the human element remains irreplaceable. Brewers bring creativity, intuition, and passion to the process, qualities that AI cannot replicate. Instead, think of AI as a tool that brewers can use to push the boundaries of what's possible, allowing them to experiment with new flavours, improve efficiency, and meet the evolving tastes of consumers.

In conclusion:

• AI is enhancing the brewing process through quality control, recipe development, and supply chain efficiency.

• It promotes sustainability by optimising resource use.

• AI improves customer engagement with personalised experiences.

• The human element remains central to brewing, with AI serving as a powerful tool for innovation.