Fava or faba beans can be used in gluten-free baking, and as a source of protein.

It used to be that the only “data” bakers we worried about were the temperature of their ovens or preferments. Fast forward to 2025, and artificial intelligence isn’t just for Silicon Valley; it’s becoming a critical tool in the commercial bakery, and IBIE 2025 is the place to see it all in action.

So, why should bakers care about AI? From reducing waste in ingredient handling to predicting maintenance needs on production lines, AI is helping us make smarter decisions batch after batch. Imagine your dough divider telling you when it’s about to need a tune-up or your inventory system automatically adjusting orders based on historical data and upcoming seasonal trends. That’s not a dream; that’s data at work.

Using Data to Streamline Baking

At IBIE 2025, I’m making a beeline for the exhibits and sessions focused on AI integration in bakery operations. Expect to see solutions for real-time monitoring, predictive analytics, and even recipe optimization based on yield data and customer feedback. There’s buzz around some new platforms that integrate directly with existing bakery management systems with no IT degree required. (Now that is what I call user-friendly dough-manship.)

The beauty of AI data collection lies in its ability to turn the heat down on decision fatigue. With numerous variables in commercial baking, including humidity, flour variability, and proofing time, achieving consistent results can feel like a juggling act. AI helps us analyze those variables in real time and offers insights we can act on before a small issue turns into a full-on bake fail.

If you’re curious about how AI-driven data collection can optimize your bakery’s operations, this year’s show will surely blow the flour out of your bins. Don’t miss IBIE, from September 13–17 in  Las Vegas. Whether you’re running a high-speed bun line or crafting artisan loaves, understanding AI in our industry is essential to your survival. See you at the show!

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About the Author

Mark Floerke is a bakery application scientist and accomplished pastry chef. He began his 50 year career with an apprenticeship in Germany as a pastry chef, and went on to work for retail bakeries, restaurants, resorts, and commercial commissaries. Mark has experience with product development and ingredient research, and has mentored future professionals as a baking instructor. He is a part of BAKERpedia’s BAKERin program and is the BAKED in Science Podcast Host.

 

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