Elizabethtown College has implemented the KITRO waste-reducing system in its primary residential dining location, The Marketplace. KITRO, developed by a Swiss company, utilizes artificial intelligence to identify and measure discarded food items. The system comprises a scale and a camera that captures images of food waste, providing real-time data insights. This data enables the college’s Dining Services team to make informed decisions about future menu choices, thereby enhancing sustainability efforts. The introduction of KITRO aligns with Elizabethtown College’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.
The KITRO system has been strategically positioned to collect food waste data, helping to identify patterns and instances where intervention can be most impactful. Early data collection has revealed correlations between higher food waste and specific times and days when the dining facility is busier. This information is being used to develop strategies to reduce food waste, such as adjusting portion sizes and menu offerings. As the first higher-education institution in the United States to implement KITRO, Elizabethtown College is at the forefront of leveraging technology to achieve its sustainability goals1
Simplified Food Waste Reducers
'KITRO' is a University-Created Tool for Optimizing Food Usage
Trend Themes
1. AI-driven Food Waste Monitoring - Artificial intelligence applications like KITRO are transforming how institutions monitor and reduce food waste.
2. Data-driven Menu Optimization - Utilizing data insights from waste monitoring systems can lead to more efficient and environmentally friendly menu planning.
3. Sustainability-focused Dining Innovations - Innovative dining solutions that promote sustainability are becoming a key focus for educational institutions.
Industry Implications
1. Higher Education - Colleges and universities are incorporating advanced technologies for improved sustainability in their dining services.
2. Food Service Technology - The food service industry is rapidly adopting AI and data analytics tools to decrease waste and optimize operations.
3. Environmental Sustainability - Increasing focus on sustainable practices is driving the adoption of technology solutions aimed at reducing food waste.