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t just 14, Sirish Subash from Snellville, GA, developed an AI-driven tool to detect pesticide residues on fruits and vegetables, named Pestiscand.
Sirish’s device, which pairs wirelessly via Bluetooth, uses spectrophotometry to detect residues with over 85% accuracy on produce like spinach and tomatoes.
His invention won him the prestigious 3M Young Scientist Challenge title and a $25,000 prize.
In this competition hosted by 3M and Discovery Education, Sirish competed against other talented young innovators across the U.S., demonstrating his project’s relevance, ingenuity, and commitment to sustainability.
Sirish's dedication to making food safer aligns with a growing interest in consumer-friendly, eco-conscious tech solutions.
Behind the Tech: How Pestiscand Works
Pestiscand uses a light-reflection technique to analyze the surface of produce.
The spectrophotometer measures various wavelengths reflecting off food surfaces, while the AI algorithm processes this data to determine if harmful residues are present.
The device features a sensor, a processor, a display, and a power source—all of which make it portable, user-friendly, and efficient.
3M Mentorship Program: Innovation and Guidance
As part of the 3M Young Scientist Challenge, Sirish worked with mentor Aditya Banerji, a research engineer at 3M, to develop Pestiscand into a functional prototype.
This mentorship, a core part of the program, helps young scientists transform ideas into practical, impactful solutions.
Sirish’s journey from idea to prototype reflects the power of mentorship, community support, and technology-driven learning.
Inspiring Future Innovators in STEM
Sirish Subash’s story is a testament to the possibilities young minds can achieve with the right support and resources.
His dedication to sustainability through technology offers a promising view of how young innovators can tackle real-world problems with science, making him not only a young scientist but a role model for future STEM enthusiasts.
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