India trialing 'e-nose' device to detect pesticides in tea
India's Tea Research Association is experimenting with a bio-sensing system to detect pesticides in tea. The device, dubbed "e-nose", will be able to detect pesticides in tea leaves and then measure the exact composition of the residues. It works by testing tea leaves that are washed and cut, and uses a color- and multiple reader-based system to estimate the pesticide concentration. Given that it is intended to be used in remote areas, the creators aimed to make it simple to use and requiring minimal maintenance to operate. Having completed the proof of concept, the machine is currently in the prototype stage with field trials required to test its commercial viability.