What's Happening?
Researchers at Oregon State University and Florida State University have developed an AI-powered tool that can accurately determine the ripeness of avocados using smartphone photos. The technology, trained
on over 1,400 images, predicts avocado firmness with more than 90% accuracy, addressing the issue of food waste due to overripeness. This innovation is part of a broader effort to reduce food waste, a significant global challenge, with nearly a third of food produced going uneaten. The AI tool aims to help consumers and retailers make informed decisions about avocado consumption and sales.
Why It's Important?
The development of AI technology to assess avocado ripeness represents a significant step in combating food waste, a critical issue affecting global food security and environmental sustainability. By enabling precise determination of fruit ripeness, this tool can help reduce the economic losses associated with spoiled produce and improve supply chain efficiency. The broader application of this technology could extend to other fruits and vegetables, offering a scalable solution to minimize waste and optimize resource use in the food industry. This innovation aligns with federal goals to halve food waste by 2030, highlighting the role of technology in achieving sustainable food systems.
