Pickle-flavoured tart, anyone? Japanese convenience stores turn to AI for novelty sweets

Fears that advanced artificial intelligence could wipe out humanity have dominated global headlines, but in Japan the technology is being used for a sweeter purpose – developing never-before-seen convenience store desserts.

For customers tired of the usual egg sandwiches and rice balls, major chains are turning to AI to develop products, including some unexpected flavours.

Lawson, one of the country’s biggest convenience store operators, said on Tuesday it would roll out three new food items, including a pickle-flavoured lemon tart and a bread roll filled with red bean paste, margarine and yogurt cream.

These products, to be launched this month in Tokyo and neighbouring regions, were created using AI around the theme: “What on earth is this? But it’s delicious.”