Why nothing beats NIRS technology: The green analytical choice for the future sustainable food production

In this perspective paper we argue for the fact that near infrared (NIR) technology, due to its unique properties, will become an indispensable green sensor technology in the future digitalized and sustainable food production. The future of near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) in green analytics is bright. Ongoing advancements in NIR technology, coupled with increased accessibility and integration with advanced multivariate data analysis such as machine learning and artificial intelligence will further amplify the impact of NIRS across food, agricultural, environmental, and renewable energy domains. The miniaturization, increased portability, and enhanced affordability of NIR instruments, coupled with its integration into emerging technologies, will empower a diverse range of industries and researchers to address pressing global challenges with unprecedented precision and efficiency. The implementation of NIR technology in process analytical technology will enable the transition to future digitalized and sustainable food production. In a future circular economy, where waste streams, co-products and water are reclaimed and valorized, continuous measurements are necessary and in many cases, there are no sensor alternatives to NIR technology.