Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming pet food manufacturing, optimizing efficiency, improving quality control and enhancing data security. At Petfood Forum 2025, Matt Lueger, executive vice president of sales at Northwind Technical Services, and Bill Ward, founder and CEO of Northslope Technologies, will explore how AI-driven solutions like machine learning and generative AI are being integrated into pet food production, inventory planning and plant operations. They will also address key challenges in AI adoption and share their vision for the future of automation in manufacturing.
Machine learning and generative AI are already making an impact on pet food manufacturing by improving process predictions and decision-making. Lueger noted that machine learning tools are being used to predict equipment wear, process parameters and product quality factors such as moisture and density. “These applications lead to big gains in production efficiency,” he said.
Generative AI, on the other hand, is changing how operators interact with manufacturing systems. “We’re starting to apply generative AI tools that provide system information and analysis via chat agents, allowing operators of all skill levels to maximize system performance,” Lueger explained.
Ward highlighted the potential of combining machine learning with generative AI to aid human decision-making on the production floor. “We are securely processing data from production systems, predicting issues and interpreting the impact of various scenarios so that human operators can make more informed judgments,” he said.
Cloud computing and AI security
As AI becomes more integrated into manufacturing, data security and scalability are critical concerns. Ward emphasized that cloud computing enables manufacturers to pilot AI solutions at one plant and then scale successful processes across multiple locations. "Today's security-focused platforms, like Palantir AIP, ensure that an organization’s entire operations are protected with military-grade data security and fine-grained access controls," he said.
Despite AI’s potential, manufacturers face hurdles when integrating AI into their processes. According to Lueger, one of the biggest challenges is knowing where to start. “Every facility has unique constraints, and companies are at different stages of digital transformation,” he said. “With so many AI tools entering the market, it’s easy to overspend. Instead of a shotgun approach, manufacturers should consult with experts to identify the biggest opportunities and build scalable AI solutions tailored to their needs.”
The future of AI in pet food manufacturing
AI’s role in pet food production is expected to expand rapidly in the coming years. Lueger predicted that AI will become a standard tool in manufacturing operations, with early adopters gaining a significant edge in efficiency. “Computing power and AI capabilities are growing at an unprecedented rate," he said. "In the next few years, I believe every pet food manufacturer will be using AI in some form."
Ward envisions a hybrid workforce where AI agents work alongside human operators. “Deep integration with control systems and plant operations will give human operators better control while AI handles repetitive and time-consuming tasks,” he explained. “This partnership between humans and AI will elevate efficiency, consistency and quality in pet food production.”
As AI adoption accelerates, pet food manufacturers that embrace these technologies will be better positioned to enhance productivity, reduce costs and meet evolving industry demands.
Understanding AI to streamline pet food manufacturing with speakers Matt Lueger, executive vice president of sales, Northwind Technical Services, and Bill Ward, founder and CEO, Northslope Technologies, will be held Tuesday, April 29, at 1:30 p.m. during Petfood Forum in Kansas City, U.S. To stay informed on the latest event developments, go to PetfoodForumEvents.com.
