Cheaper electronic tongues measure grape ripeness

Spanish scientists have developed cheap electronic tongues that measure grape ripeness by analysing the acidity of the fruit and the amount of sugar in it.

Researchers at the Universitat Politecnica de Valencia in Spain developed the devices which can measure the maturity of eight types of grapes, to determine the most appropriate time for harvesting. Cheap and portable, the “tongues” compare well with traditional tests and with current methods requiring laboratory analysis.

Researcher Inma Campos said, “These devices allow performing a continuous monitoring of the process, which would result in greater control over the product, and ultimately an increase in competitiveness.”