2025 JOHN OGILVIE RESEARCH INNOVATION AWARDS

“Development of AI-Assisted Imaging and Spectroscopic Techniques for Pulse Quality Assurance Systems” by Manickavasagan Annamalai, Senthilkumar Thiruppathi & Chandra Singh

Canada is the world’s second-largest producer of pulses, exporting approximately 6 million tonnes annually to over 150 countries, with a net export value of $4.2 billion. However, nearly 30% of international pulse trade contracts lead to disputes requiring arbitration, primarily due to inconsistencies in quality standards, methodologies, and nomenclature.
To address these challenges, a five-year collaborative research project (2020–2025) was launched by a consortium comprising the University of Guelph (ON), the University of Prince Edward Island (PEI), and Lethbridge Polytechnic (AB). The project focused on developing artificial intelligence-driven, non-destructive testing technologies for pulse quality assessment, targeting critical factors such as adulteration, pesticide residue, protein content, and varietal purity.
This initiative led to an industry-academic partnership with Hensall Co-op/Hensall Foods and NSERC Alliance, securing $540,000 in funding. The project has resulted in over thirteen peer-reviewed publications in leading journals and 20 conference presentations. Additionally, it provided advanced training in pulse quality assurance to eleven highly qualified personnel (HQPs) and numerous undergraduate students.
The developed technologies are now in the implementation phase, being deployed in small and medium-sized enterprises across the pulse supply chain both in Canada and globally. The HQPs trained through this initiative are securing positions in the pulse industry and the broader food processing sector, underscoring the project’s significant contributions to workforce development and industry innovation.