About 15,000 new food items are introduced every year to the global food stage – yet only 10% of them survive to make it past the first-year mark. (Source: Kansas State University.)

Why is one of the world’s largest markets so volatile and fickle? We believe it comes down to systemic process creation (or lack thereof), and a solid food manufacturing software system to be the framework for success for your food and beverage business. 

Don’t have a food manufacturing software option implemented yet? No problem. We’re here to answer your questions about food manufacturing software utilization and what you need to know to pick a solid food ERP choice for your growing business. 

Read on to learn more about how you can solidify your business success in such a rapidly growing and dynamic field. 

What is food manufacturing software? 

Food manufacturing software is a broad term that covers many of the critical areas of your food and beverage business. Ultimately, you want a food ERP that is as comprehensive as possible, allowing you to easily manage different areas of your business concurrently. Commonly included areas of management in your food ERP are operational management, CRM functionality, sales and communications channels for clients and vendors, recipe management, and traceability tools to help you get the best end result possible.

Is food manufacturing software worth it in 2023? 

Food manufacturing software is essential to managing your food and beverage business in 2023. Traceability is critical as the supply chain issues continue, allowing you to keep your customer base in receipt of the highest quality products possible. You’ll be able to maintain the agility you need in the case of compromise, while seamlessly integrating your communication and managing your business from the comfort of any location or device. Your team will also have the visibility and the information they need at their fingertips to do their jobs well – saving you time and lost cost from systemic inefficiencies and inadequacy.

Frequently Asked Questions: Food manufacturing software 

Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about food ERP systems in 2023: 

What is food processing software? 

Food processing software helps specifically in areas such as order management and resource tracking, providing essential functions of an ERP in an isolated environment or system. Many choose food manufacturing software over food processing software, as it is more comprehensive and offers more potential than the other available options. 

What is a food ERP? 

ERP stands for Enterprise Resource Management. A food ERP offers this service exclusively for food and beverage businesses, offering additional functionality and support that’s industry-specific (i.e. recipe management and retention). 

What software is used in the food industry? 

There are several different types of software used in the food industry, especially if there is no centralized ERP system currently in place. Types include tools such as a CRM, communication support software, operational management or project management software, sales tools, and traceability software. 

The benefit of abandoning the fractional approach and embracing a centralized food ERP largely lies in convenience, as well as a more streamlined and affordable experience for both your team members and your customers. 

What are food industry trends 2023? 

Looking ahead, there are plenty of emerging 2023 food industry trends. We’re seeing frontrunners such as AI in food operations management and traceability, smartphone app management, and localization of sourcing to avoid further disruption via the unstable global supply chain.

Many of the food business trends in 2023 will focus on accessibility, streamlining, and affordability, especially as the record-setting levels of United States inflation continue to abound. 

Can AI be used in food? 

AI has proven to be an extremely effective tool to manage the overall quality assurance and production of many food and beverage products. Large-scale enterprises have relied heavily on AI over recent years, and it’s becoming increasingly accessible and affordable for smaller food and beverage manufacturers. 

How to pick a food manufacturing software

You ultimately know the unique needs of your business, and what you’re looking to achieve. However, there are a few hallmarks you can look for as you search for reputable food manufacturing software to help you walk away with the best possible experience. These include: 

• Affordability: While this may seem common sense, we encourage you to look further than just a few months or quarters down the road. Food ERPs can be expensive, and you want something that is resilient enough to withstand the ebbs and flows of food businesses. 

• Scalability: With on-premise, hybrid, and cloud solutions, the possibilities are truly endless. However, we do want to point out that cloud ERPs are exceptionally scalable and easy to use. 
• Ease of use: Programs with user experience at the forefront of their design have wider-spread adoption rates, and are therefore more efficient for your business. Consider this as you go through your rounds of tool evals. 

What is the best food manufacturing software available? 

Inecta is the leading food manufacturing software choice currently available to food and beverage manufacturers. We offer over 20 years of industry expertise and a Microsoft-partnered framework for complete accessibility and ease of use.

For more information and to get started today, please visit our website. We look forward to connecting with you soon.