Nestlé is using data science and artificial intelligence to develop climate-resilient plants in landscapes facing environmental challenges. Due to climate change, weather-resistant coffee plants are becoming increasingly difficult to grow, which is why Nestlé’s plant scientists are using data science to identify factors that will produce healthy crops. By leveraging AI, the company is scanning a digital database of coffee traits to cultivate more sustainable coffee and plant disease- and drought-resistant beans.
The focus of this initiative is on Arabica coffee, which accounts for 70% of global coffee production. However, Arabica is more susceptible to disease and has lower heat tolerance, making it challenging to grow in the face of water shortages and limited arable land. To address this issue, Nestlé is working with the French National Institute for Sustainable Development and global consortium partners. Through state-of-the-art genomics approaches, Nestlé has developed an advanced Arabica reference to help identify key genetic markers responsible for specific traits in coffee plants.
This initiative is part of Nestlé’s Nescafé Plan 2030, aimed at regenerative agriculture. The company’s coffee segment is experiencing growth, with coffee sales growing at a high single-digit rate within powdered and liquid beverages. Nestlé’s coffee brands include Nescafe, Nespresso, Dolce Gusto, Starbucks Coffee at Home, and Blue Bottle Coffee. By leveraging data science and artificial intelligence, Nestlé is paving the way for more sustainable and resilient coffee cultivation practices.