Research and Development

1. Food in Silico Research at DSMS

DSMS is pioneering Food in Silico Research—an innovative, digital-first approach combining simulation, computer vision (CV), and artificial intelligence (AI) to transform food science, especially in formulation, distribution, and service quality assurance.

Key Contributions and Applications

  • Simulating Food Behavior and Ingredient Interactions: Computational models simulate ingredient interactions and predict physicochemical behaviors to optimize recipes for flavor, texture, and nutrition.
  • Digital Monitoring and Compliance Control:
    • Plate counting over defined periods
    • Ingredient identification at the component level
    • Automated portion measurement using depth sensors and density models
  • Accelerating Product Development and Innovation: Digital simulation predicts formulation outcomes, reducing physical prototyping and enabling rapid recipe iteration.
  • Supporting Functional Food Design and Nutritional Analysis: CV and AI integration allows real-time food composition estimation for designing personalized, health-targeted foods.
  • Enhancing Food Distribution and Sustainability: AI systems monitor delivery performance, optimize resources, and reduce food waste across supply chains.

Technical Approach and Infrastructure

  • Use of RGB-depth cameras (e.g., Luxonis OAK-D Lite) for visual and depth data capture
  • Implementation of segmentation algorithms like FoodSAM and volumetric pipelines for weight estimation
  • Adaptation to real-world variability via model retraining and advanced sensing (IR/laser)

Industry Impact

  • Faster, cost-effective product development
  • Scalable compliance and quality monitoring
  • Accurate portion control and nutrition analysis
  • Improved operational efficiency in food services
  • Support for sustainability through intelligent waste tracking

2. Food Preservation Technologies

Preservation methods at DSMS ensure safety, shelf life, and quality for diverse food products.

  • High Temperature Processing (e.g., retort) for microbial safety in RTE meals
  • Use of plant-based antimicrobials and antioxidants for natural preservation
  • Minimal processing techniques like vacuum packaging and MAP
  • Smart IoT-integrated systems for real-time storage monitoring

3. Nutritional Analysis and Fortification

Improving food’s nutritional value is at the core of DSMS's applied food science R&D.

  • Advanced lab-based macronutrient and micronutrient profiling
  • Bioavailability studies to track nutrient absorption and efficacy
  • Food fortification strategies for vulnerable groups (children, elderly, malnourished)
  • Development of functional foods for immunity, gut health, and metabolism

4. Packaging Innovation and Shelf-life Improvement

DSMS is advancing packaging technologies that merge science, design, and environmental responsibility.

  • Development of biodegradable, eco-friendly packaging
  • Testing moisture, oxygen, and microbial barrier properties
  • Active and intelligent packaging that tracks food freshness
  • Material compatibility research for varied food types and processing conditions

Conclusion

Through interdisciplinary R&D, DSMS is shaping the future of food science by combining tradition with innovation—offering impactful solutions in safety, nutrition, sustainability, and intelligent food systems.