China has launched an AI-powered sorting system capable of scanning and grading durians in four seconds, aiming to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and maintain quality standards in its durian trade. The FD3 intelligent durian sorting system was introduced on 19 July at the 2025 Hainan Durian Production and Sales Matching Event, according to Singapore outlet Must Share News.
Developed by Chinese technology teams, the FD3 system uses food-grade X-ray technology in combination with artificial intelligence to assess the internal condition of each durian. It identifies defects such as insect infestation, rot, or immature pulp.
"The AI system can perform an X-ray on each durian in just four seconds," said Fang Yuan, project manager of the FD3 system. He added that the system currently has an accuracy rate of 95% and is expected to improve as it processes more data.
The fully automated process begins with durians placed on a conveyor belt for scanning. The system's software analyzes the X-ray images and allows only fruit that meets set quality standards to continue through the supply chain. The automation is intended to improve consistency and reduce waste, particularly for high-volume producers and distributors seeking to manage costs.
Cui Hao, head of the durian processing factory at Hainan Youqi Agriculture in Sanya, Hainan Province, where the system has been deployed, said previous sorting methods were manual and often inconsistent. According to Xinhua News Agency, Cui stated: "The new sorting line, which 'CT scans' each durian, quickly grades the fruit, eliminating the problems associated with manual selection. It greatly improves sorting efficiency and ensures consistent quality for every durian."
Source: VNExpress