Snellville Teen Inventor Develops AI-Powered Pesticide Detector to Make Produce Safer

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Sirish Subhash, a 14-year-old from Snellville, Georgia, had his “Eureka!” moment not in a lab, but in his family’s kitchen. While washing fruits and vegetables, he questioned whether running them under tap water truly removed harmful pesticides. This curiosity sparked a groundbreaking idea: a device to detect pesticide residues and make fresh produce safer to eat.

The Problem with Pesticides

Subhash’s curiosity turned into concern when he researched the impact of pesticides on everyday food. A 2024 study by the Environmental Working Group revealed that 75% of fresh produce contains pesticide residues, even after washing. These chemicals are linked to serious health problems, including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and certain cancers.

Determined to find a solution, Subhash chose this issue as his focus for the 3M Young Scientist Challenge, a competition encouraging middle school students to tackle real-world problems through innovation.

Innovating a Safer Future

To address the challenge, Subhash invented PestiSCAND, a portable pesticide detector designed for everyday use. This device uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyze light wavelengths reflected off fruits and vegetables, identifying harmful pesticide residues.

Subhash also developed an iPhone app that pairs with the device, making it easy for users to scan produce while shopping. Unlike traditional at-home tests that are costly and often damage the produce, PestiSCAND offers a practical, reusable solution for consumers looking to make healthier choices.

From Idea to Award-Winning Invention

Subhash’s innovative approach earned him a spot as one of nine finalists in the 2024 3M Young Scientist Challenge. Guided by mentors like Aditya Banerji, a senior research engineer at 3M, he refined his prototype and prepared for the competition.

“My passion for science drives me, but I’ve learned that a great idea needs the right mentorship to succeed,” Subhash said. The support he received helped him improve PestiSCAND and develop a plan to bring it to market.

When the competition concluded, Subhash emerged as the winner, earning the title of America’s Top Young Scientist and a $25,000 cash prize.

More Than Just an Award

For Subhash, the greatest reward wasn’t the prize money but the knowledge and inspiration he gained through the experience. Working with seasoned scientists gave him the tools to turn his curiosity into action and the confidence to pursue future innovations.

He’s now focused on continuing his education and addressing larger issues like climate change. “In 15 years, I want to create solutions that benefit people and the planet,” he shared.

Changing the World, One Innovation at a Time

Sirish Subhash’s journey from a curious teenager to an award-winning inventor shows the power of asking questions and seeking solutions. His AI-powered pesticide detector not only addresses a critical health issue but also demonstrates how young minds can contribute to a safer, healthier future.

With his determination and creativity, Subhash is paving the way for innovations that could change the world—one scan at a time.