Enhancing milk quality assessment: A novel approach using an optical tongue with fiber-based Mach–Zehnder interferometry

The incorporation of advanced technologies in agricultural industry procedures has boosted operational efficiency, enabling more effective data collection and analysis. In this study, we developed an "optical tongue" using fiber-optic Mach–Zehnder interferometers (MZIs) built from micro tapered long-period fiber gratings (MT-LPFGs). This tool was employed to collect data related to milk quality, with results indicating a high potential to improve the quality control of dairy products. These advances demonstrate the potential of optical fiber sensor technologies in the agricultural industry and quality control.