Cardiff Metropolitan University has obtained funding of £176,000 to investigate how artificial intelligence might enhance food safety standards.

The initiative, financed through Behavioural Research UK’s Commissioning Fund, is called the Smart Hygiene Intelligence project. It will merge artificial intelligence capabilities with behavioural science expertise to create technologies that support safer food preparation practices and minimise the likelihood of foodborne disease.

According to Dr Issam Damaj, who heads the computer science department and is leading the initiative, ensuring food safety relies not just on knowledge and regulatory frameworks but also on routine human conduct.

This research will examine the potential for behavioural science and artificial intelligence to collaborate in producing applicable outcomes.

By uniting specialists in technology, food safety and behavioural research, the goal is to produce intelligent systems that function effectively, earn confidence and create tangible improvements throughout the food industry and related areas.

The work will be overseen by Cardiff’s School of Technologies and will draw on expertise from the university’s Centre for Engineering Research on Intelligent Sensors and Systems alongside the ZERO2FIVE Food Industry Centre.

Forward NPD, an industry collaborator, is also participating.

The group will collaborate with actual users to jointly develop artificial intelligence solutions that detect hygiene concerns, promote optimal procedures and assist with improved choices in professional environments and homes alike.