Artificial Vision-Based Dual CNN Classification of Banana Ripeness and Quality Attributes Using RGB Images

The accurate classification of banana ripeness is essential for optimising agricultural practices and enhancing food industry processes. This study investigates the classification of banana ripeness using Machine Learning (ML) and Deep Learning (DL) techniques. The dataset consisted of 1565 high-resolution images of bananas captured over a 20-day ripening period using a Canon EOS 90D camera under controlled lighting and background conditions. High-resolution images of bananas at different ripeness stages were classified into ‘unripe’, ‘ripe’, and ‘overripe’ categories. The training set consisted of 1398 images (89.33%), and the validation set consisted of 167 images (10.67%), allowing for robust model evaluation. Various ML models, including Decision Tree, Random Forest, KNN, SVM, CNN, and VGG models, were trained and evaluated for ripeness classification. Among these, DL models, particularly CNN and VGG, outperformed traditional ML algorithms, with the CNN and VGG achieving accuracy rates of 90.42% and 89.22%, respectively. These rates surpassed those of Decision Trees (71.86%), Random Forests (85.63%), KNNs (86.83%), and SVMs (89.22%). The study points out the importance of dataset quality, model selection, and preprocessing techniques in achieving accurate ripeness classification. Practical applications of these results include optimised harvesting practices, enhanced post-harvest handling, improved consumer experience, streamlined supply chain logistics, and automation in sorting systems. These results confirm the feasibility of using deep learning for the automated classification of ripening stages, with implications for reducing postharvest losses and improving supply chain logistics. These findings have significant implications for stakeholders in the banana industry, from farmers to consumers, and pave the way for the development of innovative solutions for banana ripeness classification.