Over the past decade, the food industry has invested heavily in automation, digitalisation, and advanced control technologies. Paradoxically, for an increasing number of factories, this race for innovation is beginning to generate a rarely discussed side effect: technological fatigue.

Complex control systems, software layered upon software, and multifunctional equipment that is insufficiently utilised all promise efficiency, yet can reduce real production flexibility. In practice, each additional technological layer increases setup times, dependence on highly specialised personnel, and maintenance costs.

In many facilities, production lines are theoretically high-performing but practically underutilised. A minor recipe adjustment or a format change may require IT intervention, multiple recalibrations, and unplanned downtime. As a result, efficiency declines and responsiveness to market demands is reduced.

Technological fatigue does not mean rejecting innovation, but rather signalling a limit. Not every new technology delivers operational value. In some cases, simpler, more robust, and well-established solutions provide greater stability than sophisticated but fragile systems.

An increasing number of companies are beginning to reassess their investments, shifting the focus from “the latest technology” to “the right technology.” The future will not belong to the most digitalised factories, but to those that know how to balance automation with operational simplicity.

(Photo: Freepik)