According to researcher Maryam Yazdani, the new technology based on artificial intelligence could facilitate access to exporting countries.
Australian researchers have tested a new way to detect fruit flies in cherries and other fruits using an optical scan programmed by artificial intelligence. The project by the CSIRO (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation), led by entomologist Maryam Yazdani, aims to make detection more efficient and effective.
"Many horticultural companies use optical scanning as a key component of the quality sorting process," Yazdani told Fruitnet. "What we tried to do [with our research] was to develop a specific imaging system for pest detection that could be integrated into the existing optical sorting systems at packing centers."
Yazdani said she hopes this system can open up market access to countries currently closed to Australian exporters due to the potential fruit fly risk. Currently, Australia uses final treatments such as fumigation and manual inspections to manage fruit fly infestation risks for fruit exported internationally and for internal transport between states.
"Australia already has very strong security measures," Yazdani said. "But this emerging technology can provide additional tools to border security regulators to minimize the risk of pest transport." Indeed, Yazdani sees the potential of optical scanning as an alternative to fumigation.
"Fumigation is quite costly and has already been banned in many countries," she said. "We may not have access to some countries in the coming years, so we really need an alternative to fumigation."
The optical scanning technology captures high-resolution images of the fruit as part of the sorting process. From the images, the artificial intelligence program can detect infestations, including recently laid eggs inside the fruit, which can be removed through existing selection technologies within the warehouse.
The program works by referencing previous images of infestations and matching the defect signs in new fruits. According to Yazdani, the team generated more than 40,000 images over three years to "train" the AI program.
"When we have high-quality data, the artificial intelligence model we are developing is more accurate," Yazdani said. "So far, the detection model we have developed for fruit fly damage in cherries has achieved about 95% accuracy."
Read the full article: Fruitnet
Image: Koppert
16 Jul 2026
A biodegradable PBAT film with curcumin and laser microperforations improves sweet cherry storage by reducing browning, moisture loss and decay. It preserves firmness, aroma and freshness, extends shelf life and supports a cost-effective, sustainable packaging solution.
06 Jun 2024
‘Agriculture is disappearing in Sierra,’ warns Inocencio Manuel Sánchez vice-president in charge of the Cepeda cooperative and points out that it can become problematic for a small producer or cooperative to be able to sell, for example, cherries.
19 Oct 2026
Global cherry production is forecast to reach a record 5.4 million tonnes in 2026/27 up by 17%, according to the USDA. Rising Chilean exports and Chinese imports point to stronger competition for Argentina’s Patagonia during the shared Southern Hemisphere export season.
19 Oct 2026
South African cherries turn to the domestic market as production rises 17% in 2024/25 and export prices fall 27%. Local demand helps sustain the value of the industry. A look at leading varieties, planted areas and the main destinations for South African cherry exports.
