PepsiCo and Grimme use virtual reality to reduce potato harvesting damage

PepsiCo and agricultural machinery manufacturer Grimme have developed a digital twin of a potato harvester to train operators using virtual reality, smartphones, or tablets. The technology allows seasonal or remote workers to learn machine settings and operating procedures in multiple languages without the risks of field testing.

Pilot programs conducted in Brazil and Mexico demonstrated significant improvements in crop quality. Following the digital training, the percentage of bruise-free potatoes increased by an average of 87%, while severe bruising saw a 1.7-fold reduction. The technology has been expanded to Romania and Poland and was showcased at PepsiCo’s Global Agro University in Germany.