Technology in agriculture (ag-tech) is how we’ll feed a growing population, make farming more sustainable and improve the lives of farm animals, say 85% of the 3,000 participants in Cargill’s new three-continent consumer survey. At the same time, only about half of those surveyed want their food to come from a technologically advanced (versus traditional) farm. Industries like medicine and education are where respondents most want to see technology used. Farming ranks third—above defense, manufacturing, retail and food.
« We know that new technologies are allowing farmers to make better, faster, more informed decisions to feed a hungry world while protecting the planet, » said Sri Raj Kantamneni, managing director of Cargill’s digital business. « We also know that agriculture is still the least digitalized industry sector in the world. That means there’s a lot of opportunity—and a lot of need—for greater investment in ag-tech. This survey highlights that in order to help humanity benefit from these advancements, we first need to do a better job of explaining the value of new technologies to consumers. »
South Korea most positive about ag-tech; France, least; U.S., in-between
In its quarterly Feed4Thought survey, Cargill found markedly different perceptions of ag-tech across the three surveyed countries. South Korea was the most positive about high-tech farms—both as a source of food (70% pro) and for their potential to make farming more sustainable (95% pro). France was the most apprehensive—with only 37% wanting their food to come from a technologically advanced farm. France and the U.S. thought farmers should benefit most when ag-tech improves operations; South Korea chose consumers. When it comes to tech investments, South Korean and American consumers agreed the top priority should be that it « increases food safety, » while French participants said technology should first and foremost « improve animal well-being. »
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