Dutch Start-Up OneThird Uses AI to Combat Food Waste
Amsterdam, Friday, 31 January 2025.
OneThird unveils an AI platform using Near Infrared technology to reduce food waste by up to 25% and cut labor costs by 50%, enhancing fresh produce quality control.
Innovation in Food Tech
Enschede-based OneThird has launched its revolutionary AI-powered quality control platform on January 29, 2025 [1]. The system, which utilizes Near Infrared (NIR) technology, represents a significant advancement in fresh produce management, capable of analyzing crucial parameters such as Brix value, dry matter, visual defects, shelf life, and ripeness for various fruits [1]. The platform is already making waves across Europe, with major retailers including JUMBO in the Netherlands, EDEKA and REWE in Germany, and several other prominent chains adopting the technology [1].
Significant Market Impact
The timing of this innovation is crucial, as approximately one-third of food brought to market is wasted annually, resulting in losses of approximately €960 billion [1][3]. OneThird’s solution has demonstrated remarkable efficiency, with the potential to reduce food waste by up to 25% while simultaneously cutting quality control labor costs by up to 50% [1][5]. The company’s success is reflected in its impressive 230% year-on-year growth [2][3], which has attracted significant investor attention, leading to a €3.5M Series A funding round led by Invest International [2].
Technology and Implementation
The platform revolutionizes traditional testing methods, which were typically labor-intensive and time-consuming. For instance, conventional dry matter testing for avocados could take up to 12 hours using ovens [1]. As explained by Marco Snikkers, founder of OneThird, ‘For years, the industry has relied on destructive and subjective Brix testing for berries and labor-intensive dry matter testing for avocados… Many are surprised to learn there’s a faster, more accurate way’ [1]. The technology currently supports various produce types, including avocados, blueberries, strawberries, and tomatoes [2][5].
Future Expansion
Under the leadership of newly appointed CEO Henrike Langbroek [2][3], OneThird is set to expand its reach across Europe and North America. The company plans to scale its retail store scanners, which are currently deployed in 10 countries [5]. ‘I am thrilled to join OneThird and work with the team to make a measurable difference in reducing global food waste and creating a more efficient and sustainable food system for the future,’ states Langbroek [3][4].