Visible/Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Devices and Wet-Chem Analyses for Grapes (Vitis vinifera L.) Quality Assessment: An Environmental Performance Comparison

Abstract

Background and Aims. The composition of grapes (Vitis vinifera L.) at harvest is a key factor that determines the future quality of wine. The work aimed to evaluate and compare the environmental impact of the most evaluated technological parameters using three approaches: the wet-chem method, the optical method using benchtop devices, and the optical method using a prototype smart and cost-effective device (Technology Readiness Level: 5). Methods and Results. The life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology was used to identify the most environmentally sustainable solution in a “from-cradle-to-grave” approach. The functional unit was identified by the execution of the analyses necessary to measure the three technological parameters: TSS, pH, and TA. The findings show that the optical analysis carried out with the prototype is the most suitable and green solution (i.e., with the lowest environmental impact in all the impact categories analysed); in fact, the same technology has proved to be 3.2 times more sustainable than the wet-chem method for the best average environmental performance. Conclusions. The research demonstrated the environmental impact advantages of the optical analyses for assessment of grape composition. Significance of the Study. Innovations in agriculture and the development of smart solutions represent advantages for managing and monitoring the composition of agri-food products that are a green solution for the industry.