Bel implements digital twin technology for cheese R&D

The cheese manufacturer Bel is implementing a ‘digital twin’ technology to accelerate its research and development processes. This initiative, announced during the centenary celebrations of its historic production site in Lons-le-Saunier, France, aims to modernize the production and recipe testing of its famous La Vache qui rit brand.

Through a partnership with Dassault Systèmes, Bel will use 3D modeling and digital twin technology—previously utilized in the aeronautics and automotive sectors—to simulate thousands of recipe combinations virtually. This process accounts for ingredients, physicochemical properties, sensory perception, and consumer preferences before physical laboratory testing begins. The project is expected to be deployed at an industrial scale by 2028, allowing the company to shorten product development cycles and remain competitive in the global dairy market.