Federal Grant Award Summary

The Trustees of the Stevens Institute of Technology received a $728,000 project grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) under the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) program (CFDA 10.310) for a three-year performance period from February 1, 2026, through January 31, 2029. The project aims to develop a rapid, non-destructive food quality assessment system by combining data science and ultra-wideband microwave imaging technology to evaluate food products without damage.

The primary deliverable is a scalable, efficient tool that leverages trustworthy deep learning algorithms and digital twin technology to assess food freshness, internal structure, and early deterioration indicators across multiple food types. By analyzing large volumes of imaging data, the system will enable prediction of quality changes over time and provide guidance for improved storage and preservation practices. The technology addresses critical inefficiencies in current food quality testing methodologies and is expected to reduce food waste, enhance food safety, support data-informed management decisions, and strengthen the resilience and sustainability of agricultural and food systems. Performance of the research activities will occur at Stevens Institute of Technology's facility in Hoboken, New Jersey.