NIR 5.0: Smart Spectral Technologies Shaping the Future for Sustainable and Authentic Agri-Food Systems

Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) has evolved into a key enabling technology for achieving transparency, sustainability, and authenticity across the agri-food value chain. Its simplicity, rapidity, selectivity, and non-destructive nature make it particularly well suited for in situ applications outside conventional laboratories. Recent advances in miniaturisation, fibre-optic design, and spectral data processing have transformed NIRS into a powerful, portable analytical tool capable of addressing complex challenges “from farm to fork.” The emergence of miniaturised and handheld NIR devices enables real-time assessment of food quality, safety, and authenticity at multiple points in the supply chain — from raw material inspection to processing and retail. Combined with big data analytics, artificial intelligence, and Internet-of-Things (IoT) connectivity, these sensors form the foundation of smart, digitalised food systems that support traceability, fraud prevention, and informed decision-making. Such integration aligns with Industry 5.0 principles, promoting human-machine collaboration for more resilient, resource-efficient, and consumer-centric production. This lecture highlights recent progress and applications of NIR sensors for on-site evaluation of oils, fruits, vegetables, meats, and other food products. Case studies demonstrate how portable spectroscopy, coupled with chemometrics and digital platforms, enhances transparency, quality assurance, and sustainability within agri-food systems. NIR 5.0 technologies are paving the way toward smarter, more trustworthy, and sustainable food systems worldwide.