Introducing The Digital Feed, our new interview series exploring agritech

There will be 9.7 billion people in the world by 2050. Feeding them will require increasing current food production by up to 98%. Agritech in particular will play a pivotal role in achieving this sustainably, equitably, and without expanding agricultural land. What are these technologies, how can we apply them and what are their opportunities, benefits and risks?

To bring you up to speed with these developments in food tech and to explore the future of food, we are launching The Digital Feed, a video interview series in collaboration with SGInnovate that will delve into the latest developments, trends and insights in agritech and the food space.

The launch is a timely one, as the food sector is currently attracting a lot of attention globally from startups, R&D teams, investors, and governments. The focus is on finding new innovations and technologies that can make food value chains more sustainable and resilient.

Some of the other topics we’ll cover include:

• Digital farming, or precision agriculture powered by digital technologies. Unmanned aerial vehicles, drones, remote sensing, and the Internet of Things networks all help farmers to increase efficiency, reduce the need for inputs and improve the sustainability of farming. But how much of this is true and to what extent can these technologies really assist farmers?
• Digitalisation of food chains. For instance, smartphones are helping farmers by providing crop advisories or enabling financial transactions, while technologies such as blockchain are being used to improve food traceability, bringing transparency into agriculture. But how exactly does blockchain work, and why is it important for the future of the food supply chain?
• Urban farming, made possible using techniques like hydroponics and aquaponics, is a growing trend that can enhance food security in cities and contribute to environmental sustainability. This raises the question: How can a city feed itself? What is the role of the government in supporting local food production? And how can countries manage their food waste and become more sustainable?
• Alternative proteins such as cultured meat, plant-based proteins, and insects are being explored by innovators and entrepreneurs. The food we eat is itself being reimagined. What is the future for alternative protein, and what developments have we made thus far?

The Global Centre for Technology, Innovation and Sustainable Development in Singapore has a mandate to help bring technological improvements and innovations in the food and agriculture space to the forefront, particularly within developing countries. With this aim, The Digital Feed will feature developments and trends across various stages of food value chains — from food production and supply to consumption and food waste management. The series will feature experts, practitioners, and innovators working in this exciting and fast-growing space.

Stay tuned!