Setting Up An IoT-Powered Ecosystem For Food Safety In QSRs

The Background

In the food industry, maintaining proper food storage temperature is essential for safe, compliant, and uninterruptable operations. Traditionally, this process relied on time-consuming and error-prone manual checks that lacked centralized oversight.

With 35,000+ locations globally, our client, one of the world’s largest quick-service restaurant chains, sought to digitize and streamline the process from start to finish. The goal was not just automation but also building a broader IoT ecosystem that delivers continuously evolving and tangible value across every facet of operations.

Challenges

There were several key hurdles to address that could potentially lead to foodborne illness, reputational damage, and financial loss, including:

• Manual temperature checks and logging were inefficient and inconsistent.
• Human errors and omissions in data entry compromise accuracy and compliance.
• Lack of real-time visibility hindered fast decision-making and compliance monitoring.

What We Did

We developed a comprehensive IoT ecosystem that combines smart hardware, software, and real-time data. Its highly integrable nature with other systems enables IoT-generated data to drive speedy and effective decision-making.

The ecosystem is built on the following core capabilities and components:

Smart IR thermometer design and manufacturing
We designed and manufactured an innovative infrared thermometer that adjacently mounts to a smartphone’s camera. This setup supports AI-powered image recognition and automatic temperature capture without manual input. The communication between the thermometer and the phone is secured with industry-standard encryption and authentication protocols.

Comprehensive IoT infrastructure
Also integrated into the ecosystem are third-party devices, such as fridge and freezer sensors, creating a unified and scalable solution. This interoperability results in smooth data flow and device communication across all locations.

Notifications engine
We created a fully customizable notifications engine that sends real-time alerts to prompt swift interventions when anomalies occur.

Dynamic workflow engine integration
The system integrates with a dynamic workflow engine that automates corrective actions based on temperature readings and safety protocols. This allows for adaptable and automated responses to deviations while maintaining food safety with minimal staff intervention, thanks to clear documentation outlining each step.

Reporting and compliance
We developed a reporting tool that generates regulatory and compliance reports tailored for different roles. These reports align with FDA and Food Safety Modernization Act standards, helping the chain meet stringent industry regulations.

The Results

• Enhanced accuracy: automated monitoring drastically decreases errors and improves data reliability.
• Operational efficiency: streamlined workflows minimize time spent on temperature checks and logging.
• Improved compliance: real-time monitoring and reporting uphold strict adherence to food safety regulations.
• Fewer complaints: improved processes and data accuracy reduce customer complaints.
• Reduced losses: quick interventions and better control over storage conditions minimized product waste and financial losses.
• Scalability: the system’s flexible IoT infrastructure supports the integration of future devices and processes, accommodating the client’s evolving needs.