AI-powered system targets plate waste and portion control

A computer vision system designed to assess portion sizes and analyse plate waste is being trialled at two major UK pub chains.

Developed by business transformation partner Commercial, the automated system helps improve portion consistency and identifies uneaten items on returned plates, supporting strategies for food waste reduction.

Dishes on the kitchen pass are monitored in real time, alerting chefs to portion inconsistencies so they can be corrected before food is served. The quantity and type of plate waste is also analysed automatically without disrupting the pace of service.

The system combines camera-based computer vision with machine learning models and weighted food waste bins. By capturing and classifying discarded food, it links plate waste volumes to specific dishes and portion sizes.

Data is uploaded to a central platform where it can be reviewed by operational teams. Through API integration, information can be connected to existing management systems allowing raw kitchen data to be analysed and translated into actionable insights.

Plate waste is one of the least visible sources of food loss in commercial kitchens. According to WRAP, food waste in UK hospitality and foodservice equates to around £10,000 per outlet per year, with plate waste a major contributor.

“Foodservice operators often have limited visibility of what diners leave uneaten,” says Marc Cavendish, head of green and smart technologies at Commercial. “Systematic measurement of plate waste generates robust data that can be used to inform decisions about portion sizes and menu adjustments. Combining this with portion control systems helps maintain consistency between staff and across locations, reducing avoidable food waste.”

The system is currently on trial in three kitchens for two pub chains ahead of planned national rollouts.