Development of a Compact IR-ATR Sensor for Sugar Content Measurement in Liquid Foods

The goal of this development is to develop a compact attenuated total reflection (ATR) sugar sensor which can be integrated in future kitchen appliances like juicers and blenders to track the sugar concentration of the prepared juices and smoothies. Based on the measurement’s recommendations can be given to ensure the preferred sugar levels of the users or to support users which need to monitor their sugar intake because of a special diet or health issues. This is an important step towards personalized nutrition. We have evaluated more than 10 different configurations based on the type and arrangement of source, detectors, and ATR crystal. Also, the use of additional lenses and waveguides was evaluated. However, the design showing overall best performance and manufacturability was chosen to build a demonstrator. Optical simulations and practical measurements of different sugar solutions and commercially available fruit juices are presented.