TuberSense

Oct 21 – Apr 26

Funder – Innovate UK

Funder – Knowledge Transfer Partnership

Funder – UKRI Future Leader’s Fellowship

The TuberSense project is dedicated to developing an innovative technology for the early detection of potato diseases through volatile sensing. By identifying key gases emitted by diseased potatoes, such as those affected by soft rot, TuberSense aims to reduce food waste in the supply chain. This advanced sensing system will provide an early warning of disease development, allowing for timely interventions and minimizing waste during long-term storage. The technology is currently in alpha testing across multiple potato stores in the UK, with promising initial results.

The Challenge

Like other fresh produce, potato crops are prone to deterioration during long-term storage, leading to significant waste in the supply chain. Diseases such as soft rot can spread undetected, resulting in expensive losses for producers and retailers. Traditional methods of monitoring potato health in storage are often reactive, identifying issues only after substantial damage has already occurred. The challenge is to develop a system that can provide an early, reliable indication of disease development, allowing for proactive measures to be taken before widespread spoilage occurs.

The Solution

TuberSense offers a solution by creating sensors capable of detecting volatile gases emitted by potatoes as they develop diseases like soft rot.

By identifying these key gases, the system provides an early warning signal, enabling growers and storage operators to take action before the disease spreads. The technology is currently in its alpha testing phase, with units installed in several potato stores across the UK. Significant progress has been made in analysing the specific volatile compounds released by rotten potatoes, and the next steps involve refining the sensors and conducting additional trials in storage environments. This approach is poised to significantly reduce food waste in the supply chain and enhance the overall efficiency of potato storage management.