Hyperspectral imaging and AI platform for rapid detection of herbicide and pesticide residues in crops
AgResearch has developed a hyperspectral imaging workflow combined with artificial intelligence to detect herbicide and pesticide residues on pasture plants in the field. The non-destructive approach achieves 90 percent detection accuracy and aims to replace slow, complex laboratory methods with rapid, real-time chemical residue screening for food safety and agricultural contamination applications.
Overview
AgResearch has developed a hyperspectral imaging (HSI) workflow paired with artificial intelligence (AI) to detect herbicide and pesticide residues on pasture plants directly in the field. The technology addresses a long-standing challenge in agricultural contamination and food safety by offering a rapid, non-destructive alternative to traditional residue testing, which typically requires complex sample preparation, lengthy detection times, and skilled manual handling. The platform has demonstrated 90 percent accuracy in preliminary trials across 25 experimental pasture plots and is positioned as a practical tool for producers, regulators, and food safety stakeholders seeking faster, field-deployable chemical residue screening.
Technical specifications
- Hyperspectral imaging sensors capture spatial and spectral data from pasture canopies in a single scan, enabling chemical residue detection without destroying the sample.
- AI algorithms perform supervised and unsupervised image classification to segment grass plots, validate detections, and automate data analysis.
- The workflow distinguishes sprayed plots from untreated controls across multiple pasture species, supporting both targeted and broad-spectrum residue screening.
- Detection is designed to operate in rapid or near real-time modes, reducing turnaround compared with conventional laboratory analytical methods.
- Planned future work will expand the platform into a spatial-spectral reference database covering multiple herbicides, pesticides, and insecticides for use across several food crop applications.
Technology readiness level
The technology is at an advanced validation stage, with successful preliminary results demonstrating 90 percent confidence in detecting herbicide and pesticide residues across controlled field plots. The current workflow is functional for pasture ecosystems and is ready for further co-development to extend coverage to additional crops and chemical compounds. A two-year validation programme is planned to build a comprehensive chemical residue database and refine deployment pathways, making this an ideal opportunity for partners seeking to shape the next stage of a field-ready agricultural sensing platform.
About AgResearch
AgResearch is a New Zealand-based Crown Research Institute and part of the Bioeconomy Science Institute. It delivers scientific research, knowledge, and technologies specifically for the pastoral, agri-food, and agri-technology sectors. The organization operates through national and regional research centres and farms across New Zealand, focusing on areas such as sustainable agriculture, biosecurity, future farming systems, and emerging foods. AgResearch employs a strategy-led approach that incorporates te ao Māori and digital innovation to drive economic growth while addressing environmental and social challenges.
The company's work provides evidence-based solutions that enhance the value, productivity, and profitability of New Zealand’s primary industries. By partnering with businesses, Māori enterprises, and the government, AgResearch helps stakeholders navigate issues like climate change and evolving consumer demands. Their expertise supports the development of sustainable land-based enterprises, the protection of natural resources, and the creation of high-value bio-based products, ultimately contributing to the long-term resilience and competitiveness of New Zealand’s agricultural economy.
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