Hyundai Green Food unveiled its latest dietary initiative, the GREATING Athlete program, tailored specifically for sports players. The program, launched in collaboration with Ulsan Hyundai Mobis Phoebus players, features a carefully curated menu. Offerings include meat-filled dumplings and braised tofu with a carbohydrate-to-protein ratio of 52%, ideal for agile positions such as guards.
Announced on April 4, the initiative utilizes advanced AI technology to analyze player body composition, dietary habits, and allergy considerations, providing personalized menus optimized for individual needs. For power forward players requiring bursts of strength during critical game moments, the program recommends meals with double the protein content typically found in conventional convenience foods. Dishes like beef fried rice with extra protein and chicken with leek salad are among the tailored recommendations.
Despite anticipated cost increases of approximately 20% due to additional expenses related to ingredient preparation and cooking processes, a Hyundai Green Food spokesperson expressed optimism, noting a potential rise in demand for personalized dietary plans in the future.
In response to pandemic-induced challenges, South Korea’s food service industry has embraced technological innovations to maintain competitiveness. With large-scale group catering at workplaces and universities suspended due to COVID-19, the industry witnessed a downturn, only recently rebounding post-pandemic with a surge in cafeteria usage.
AI has emerged as a focal point within the food service sector, with companies leveraging data-driven insights to tailor menus and optimize ingredient management. Samsung Welstory recently unveiled an AI menu recommendation service, utilizing individual dietary data to analyze 20 different nutrients, while Ourhome has invested in AI startups to foster food tech innovation. CJ Freshway pioneers AI systems to analyze children’s dietary habits. The company envisions expanding its customer base beyond childcare facilities to encompass toddlers and their guardians once their AI technology is fully developed.
Furthermore, companies are integrating food tech solutions, including robotics, to alleviate labor shortages and streamline cooking processes. Both Samsung Welstory and CJ Freshway have embraced robotics in cafeteria operations. Samsung Welstory introduced a robotic cafeteria corner last year, equipped with cooking robots and specialized robotic arms for food preparation. CJ Freshway recently partnered with Hanwha Robotics to streamline cooking and distribution processes.
