Smart Sensors for Food Safety: Democratizing Access to High-Quality Food in Brazil
- Sponsor
- Lemann Center for Brazilian Studies
- Speaker
- Marcus Vinicius da Silva Ferreira
- Views
- 38
- Originating Calendar
- Lemann Center Events
Food safety is a critical global concern, especially in Brazil, where small-scale food industries lack access to low-cost, high-speed, and reliable quality control technologies. To address this, my research proposes the development of an Online Portable Low-Cost E-Nose System (OPLCEN) aimed at the Brazilian food industry for enhancing food safety monitoring. In parallel, complementary simulation-based research on food drying behavior has been conducted to model heat and mass transfer phenomena through computational software. These simulations provide critical insights into moisture transport and drying kinetics, supporting the broader goal of improving food processing conditions and real-time monitoring capabilities. The aim of my project is to optimize the physical design of the OPLCEN to improve analysis accuracy through the application of artificial intelligence (AI). We are testing the device with Brazilian commodities, where this system can then be used independently or installed at the end of food drying lines to enable real-time monitoring at a fraction of the cost of conventional methods. Whether used alone or in combination with smart dryers, the OPLCEN has the potential to significantly improve food safety practices and profitability for small food manufacturers across Brazil.
Speaker Bio:
Marcus’s work bridges his academic background in chemistry and food engineering with his recent studies in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and sensor technologies. His research focuses on developing intelligent sensor systems to enhance food quality and safety. By integrating his expertise across disciplines, he is creating innovative solutions to some of the most pressing challenges in the food industry.
With a multidisciplinary mindset he uses sensors and AI innovations for practical problems. He is driven by the philosophy of using technology to build a better society through sustainable innovations that serve industries and communities alike.