As 5G technology is rolled out by internet providers around the world, companies in a wide variety of industries are exploring how higher-speed connectivity will change production and operations. In the food industry, manufacturers are already examining how to leverage 5G to add smart technology designed to improve sustainability, efficiency, capacity and food safety.
What is it?
5G technology is the fifth generation of wireless networks, which enables faster and more powerful connectivity between machines and devices. The technology allows for faster response times (latency) and higher bandwidth capacities, allowing companies to transfer more data at one time.
Why you should care
Implementing a 5G-enabled system for automation and smart technology will eventually become a competitive advantage for Canadian food businesses, especially as operators begin to see rewards such as a more streamlined system, lower operating costs, and greater production efficiency and capacity.
With a 5G network and the use of sensors, food companies will be able to:
- Make better use of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to create smarter operating systems.
- Monitor and send warehouse and production data in real time.
- Boost automation efforts.
- More easily operate robotics, drones and other advanced technology.
- Create faster, more accurate communications, especially when companies are also using enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems to track material throughout the supply chain.
- Monitor and improve safety throughout the system.
- Allow for faster and more accurate recalls.
- Allow companies to store information in blockchain, which adds transparency for consumers.
- Encourage more online ordering, payment and delivery due to the higher bandwidth and latency.
Opportunities in Canada
Canada’s 5G network is already fairly advanced, and as companies continue to innovate with smart technology they will increasingly discover ways to leverage the network while offering consumers more transparency around their supply chains.
5G network coverage in Canada is led by companies such as Bell Canada, Rogers and Telus, connection and coverage is expanding, starting primarily with urban centres.
@Joe Lake's Take:
Faster and more reliable networks will be required to properly leverage the connected technology often referred to as the Internet of Things (IoT) and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). As opposed to consumer-oriented IoT applications such as smart thermostats, IIoT devices are networked through sensors to other devices and with industrial software and cloud computing to manage production, monitor quality assurance, control energy use, and more. Within this controlled, connected system operators can view real-time data, allowing them to make needed adjustments and improve overall efficiency. One challenge for Canada is its larger geographical size vs. population density. Additionally, a large portion of the country’s agriculture and food processing is rural. It’s imperative that both farming and manufacturing in rural areas are serviced to ensure that processing innovation requiring 5G can thrive and advance competitiveness nationally.
If you have a digital solution to make supply chains safer and more agile, apply for our Food Innovation Challenge. Applications are due July 7th.
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