Plastic fiber optic sensor for measuring the sugar content of Valencia oranges

Abstract

To ensure appropriate quality control during marketing, accurate assessment of sugar content in citrus fruits is essential. Additionally, it is important to limit sugar intake of people with medical conditions. In this study, we present a simplified and accurate approach for measuring sucrose content in Valencia oranges by using a low-cost optoelectronic system that we designed and fabricated. The proposed system comprises a plastic optical fiber (POF) integrated with a multispectral sensor for obtaining the visible spectrum of citrus juices. This integration enabled the detection of absorption changes in the evanescent field of the POF when contacted with the juice samples. The multispectral sensor digitally records the response, capturing wavelengths from 415-910 nm. The collected data are further processed and analyzed using an information management system. By incorporating these optical and electronic components, a compact and affordable automated instrument was fabricated that can potentially replace conventional laboratory equipment for determining the Brix sugar content of fruits.