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AI Decodes Indian Thali for Health Insights
17 Jan
Summary
- IIITH researchers use AI to analyze Indian thali textures and ingredients.
- The AI aims to overcome challenges in tracking diverse Indian meals.
- A future app-based system will scan meals using phone cameras.
Researchers at the International Institute of Information Technology (IIITH) in Hyderabad are pioneering the use of artificial intelligence to analyze the complex textures and ingredients of Indian thalis. This groundbreaking work seeks to decode the nuances of Indian food, cooking, and culture, with the ultimate goal of accurately tracking food intake. The project addresses a critical gap, as existing nutritional apps are often tailored to standardized Western meals.
The team has already developed a functional prototype capable of estimating the contents of an Indian meal from an image. Future plans involve extending this technology into a user-friendly app, allowing individuals to scan their meals using phone cameras. A significant challenge identified is the mixing of dishes, such as dal with rice or vegetables with gravies, which complicates precise calorie and nutritional estimations.
Beyond individual meal analysis, IIITH is also developing an 'Indian food map' to illustrate regional variations in cuisine, starting with biryani. Their long-term vision extends to AI systems that actively assist users during the cooking process. This research, presented at ICVGIP 2025, signifies a major step towards inclusive and accurate dietary tracking.
