Albertsons Rolls Out Google AI Quality Control System at Four Distribution Centers

Albertsons Cos. has begun using a patent-pending Intelligent Quality Control tool that relies on computer vision to help maintain standards for fresh fruits and vegetables at its distribution centers. The tool, which uses Google Cloud's Gemini Enterprise including Vision AI and Gemini models, is operating in four Albertsons Cos.

Distribution centers. It will expand to all Albertsons Cos. distribution center locations later in 2026, the company told USA TODAY. Albertsons is in the process of expanding the tool's focus to include blueberries, blackberries and raspberries.

Later in 2026 the company will add apples, cherries and citrus fruits. The AI tool checks for bruising, discoloration, decay, overripe, underripe and insect damage. It aims to reduce the amount of moldy or squishy strawberries and grapes that reach produce sections.

Andy Harig, vice president of tax, trade, sustainability and policy development at FMI, The Food Industry Association, said FMI members are using AI across many aspects of the fresh foods department. FMI, The Food Industry Association represents the food and grocery industry.

"Because produce has a limited shelf life, and consumers have highly individualized expectations around appearance and quality, it has long been one of the most challenging departments for retailers when it comes to waste," Harig told USA TODAY.

That challenge has made produce a natural area for AI applications. Harig said AI is being used to improve ordering dynamics and help manage unsold product in produce. "We’re also seeing momentum around tools that evaluate quality, freshness, and appearance – building on earlier innovations like smart labels – with AI now making these solutions more affordable and easier to scale, which means less waste," he said.

USA TODAY reported that the grocer's new tool is part of broader industry efforts to address waste in fresh foods. The combination of limited shelf life and precise consumer expectations has driven adoption of these technologies.