In an era of data abundance, novel digital research methods are reshaping how we study and improve food systems. Building on earlier sessions focused on speech-based AI and farmer-generated data, this discussion broadens the lens, bringing together two researchers who are applying cutting-edge digital tools to address complex questions in the food domain. 

First, Bia Silveira Carneiro (Research Team Leader, Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT) will share her research on Digital Methods approaches for understanding food system dynamics—how online issue mapping can support food security analysis by uncovering narratives and sentiment around food security shocks and outcomes. She will present the tools and solutions her team at CGIAR Climate Security has been developing to collect, analyze and visualize digital platforms data for insights into strategic issues.   

Then, Soonho Kim (Senior Data Manager, IFPRI) details a fundamental shift in media analysis from traditional, keyword-based natural language processing to AI-driven semantic reasoning. Practical applications of this technology are the Food Security Portal’s AI search, the automated input collector for the Food and Fertilizer Export Restrictions Tracker and RIAPA.ai. This evolution facilitates a collaborative dynamic where researchers may integrate AI agents into their established research workflows. Lessons learned highlight that data quality/ethics established the ultimate ceiling for AI potential, making human verification non-negotiable in food systems research. 

 Together, our speakers will explore the journey from method development through implementation and evaluation—highlighting lessons, challenges, and future directions for food-system research in low- and middle-income countries.The discussion will be led by Bernard Pelletier (Farm Radio International), who will offer reflections on how organizations like FRI are working to operationalize digital and AI-based research methods. Drawing on FRI’s experience supporting national extension systems and public communication platforms, he will discuss practical considerations around institutional adoption, scalability, and translating digital insights into policy-relevant action.

Speakers

• Bia Silveira Carneiro, Research Team Leader, Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT
• Soonho Kim, Senior Data Manager, IFPRI

Discussant

• Bernard Pelletier, Research Lead and M&E Support, Farm Radio International (FRI)

Moderator

• Eliot Jones-Garcia, Senior Research Analyst, IFPRI; PhD Candidate, Wageningen University