The Twente-based start-up OneThird has developed an AI scanner capable of rapidly assessing the quality and shelf life of fruits and vegetables. This technology helps to reduce food waste and is already being used by retailers in the Netherlands and abroad. Thanks to support from the MIT AI regulation, part of AIC4NL's AiNed program, OneThird was able to further develop its prototype. The result is a robust system ready for international deployment.
AI against food waste
Over 30 percent of food is lost worldwide, including many fruits and vegetables. The AI startup OneThird from Enschede therefore developed an AI scanner that predicts the quality and shelf life of products. The technology attracted international attention during CES 2023 in Las Vegas and is now being used by supermarket chains in the Netherlands, Canada and Scandinavia. By combining smart image recognition with AI models, the scanner helps reduce waste throughout the chain, from the grower to the store shelf.
AI predicts ripeness and shelf life
OneThird's AI scanner combines an advanced multi-spectral camera with artificial intelligence to predict the shelf life of fruits and vegetables down to one day. While the camera analyzes invisible wavelengths, the AI algorithm processes this data (such as water and sugar content) to instantly determine ripeness and expected freshness duration. In the process, the produce remains intact and suitable for sale. This non-invasive method prevents waste as early as the analysis itself.
"Our scanning method is non-invasive. The products we test remain intact. That, too, immediately leads to less waste." - Ruben Hekster, CTO OneThird
The team has built an extensive database of reference scans, continuously improving the machine learning models. The scanner has evolved from a wired version to a wireless version with cloud connectivity. With support from the MIT AI grant, OneThird also developed a camera setup for scanning larger volumes.
Up to 25% less waste and wider chain impact
Growers and distributors can use OneThird's AI scanner to more accurately determine where and when products are delivered, which has already resulted in as much as 25% less waste. "We can now deploy products in the right place much more effectively, or take them out of the chain entirely," says Ruben Hekster, CTO of OneThird. In addition to strawberries, tomatoes, blueberries and avocados are now also included, with six more products on the roadmap.
Sustainable and economic profit
The scanner not only generates sustainable profit, but also provides economic benefits, such as less waste, fewer returns and higher customer satisfaction. The technology is also in line with future regulations, such as the European AI regulation. OneThird is also actively working on the anonymization and transparency of customer data.
About the MIT AI scheme
The SME Innovation Stimulation Top Sectors for Artificial Intelligence (MIT AI) supports innovative companies like OneThird to develop AI solutions that actually make a difference. The scheme helps them take the step from idea to an application with social and economic results.
