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.
In the study, researchers at the Universitat Politecnica de Valencia in Spain developed electronic tongues to measure the maturity of eight different types of grapes (Macabeo, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shyrah, Merlot and Bobal) in several locations of vineyards of Utiel and Requena (Valencia).
They observed a good correlation between the response of the tongue and parameters analysed in traditional tests: the acidity of the fruit and its amount of sugar.
The results confirm the usefulness of these devices for controlling grape maturity and, therefore, evaluate the most appropriate time for harvesting, researchers said.
Among its main advantages, the tongues are cheap and portable.
"The latter is especially useful to assess the degree of ripeness as with current methods of analysis further assessment in a laboratory is usually required," said Ramon Martinez Manez, researcher at the Centre for Molecular Recognition and Technological Development (IDM) - Universitat Politecnica de Valencia.
"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," said researcher Inma Campos.
The study in collaboration with Valencia winery Torre Oria was published in the journal Food Research International.
