Have you ever attended a seminar expecting to focus on one topic, only to leave contemplating something entirely different?
Yesterday, I attended an event at the NC Biotechnology Center in Durham, NC, hosted by the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at North Carolina State University. The event, titled “Emerging Research Showcase: AI and Precision Livestock Farming,” featured insightful presentations from industry leaders, faculty, and students. While I gained valuable knowledge about NCSU’s advancements in AI and robotics within pig, poultry, dairy, and beef cattle sectors, the experience provoked me to reflect on how we can effectively communicate with consumers about our food and animal health products in the future.
The presentation delivered by Dr. Katie Sanders, Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist, titled “Leveraging Science Communication and Engagement around the Use of AI for Animal Health,” prompted me to consider how consumers will access information in the future. Dr. Sanders highlighted the example of GMOs to illustrate a significant gap in public understanding: while 90% of scientists believe GMOs are safe, only 50% of consumers share that view.
My key takeaway is that animal health companies operating in the livestock, poultry, and companion animal sectors should control how Large Language Models—advanced AI systems—are trained on the safety and efficacy of their products. While “influence” may be more accurate than “control,” it’s important for these companies to recognize the shift from traditional online searches to conversational platforms like ChatGPT. Now is the time for animal health companies to consider their role in guiding the information that AI systems provide to consumers.
Bob Jones
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