The National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management, Kundli (NIFTEM-K), under the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), has introduced an innovative solution to reduce post-harvest losses in perishable food transportation. The Solar Assisted Reefer Transportation with Hybrid Controls and Intelligence (SARTHI) integrates IoT, sensors, and solar power to revolutionize the transport of fruits and vegetables.
Dr Harinder Singh Oberoi, Director of NIFTEM-K, emphasized the significance of SARTHI, calling it “a true sarthi (companion) for farmers, retailers, food processors, and entrepreneurs” by reducing wastage in perishables. He highlighted the system’s ability to monitor quality remotely and make real-time decisions during transportation, thus minimizing spoilage.
SARTHI features dual compartments designed to store fruits and vegetables at different temperatures, addressing their unique storage needs. Fruits are kept between 0-5°C, while vegetables are stored at 7-12°C. Additionally, a compartment can maintain temperatures as low as -10°C for specific produce. This design helps extend shelf life and reduces losses due to chilling injury or moisture loss.
What sets SARTHI apart is its integration of IoT and real-time monitoring. Sensors measure temperature, humidity, ethylene, and CO2 levels, sending data to a mobile app for quality assessment. This technology allows transporters to make informed decisions, potentially rerouting produce to closer markets if spoilage is detected, cutting energy waste and reducing carbon footprints.
The system also includes a solar-powered air handling unit that ensures temperature control during halts. This sustainable feature enhances SARTHI’s ability to maintain the quality of perishable goods during transport.
With its innovative approach, SARTHI promises to be a game-changer in reducing post-harvest losses in India’s food supply chain.
From: financialexpress
Financial News
