Launch of large-scale robotic mushroom harvesting and scanning system

Canadian Mycionics has launched its robotic mushroom harvesting and scanning system with South Mill Champs.

A rigorous six-month pilot proved an economically viable solution to the industry's pressing labour challenges. Employing a hybrid harvesting approach enabled by the Christiaens Group's drawer infrastructure, this technology allows humans and robots to work side-by-side on centralized platforms. The method leverages humans for their skills, and robots for their precision and stamina. With two robotic arms, the system harvested 33 percent of the crop with quality exceeding human harvesting, while also providing real-time crop insights that optimize growing and harvest decisions.

"Having lived through the complexities of robotizing traditional mushroom farms, I am confident in this new hybrid approach," said Stefan Glibetic, CEO of Mycionics. "Now validated by South Mill Champs' commitment to this large-scale deployment, it marks a new era for mushroom production."

Deployment at South Mill Champs will occur in two phases. Phase one, beginning this month, will implement Mycionics' scanning and pointing technologies farm-wide. These are projected to enhance harvesting efficiency by 15 percent and increase crop yield by 4-8 percent through guided labour and precision picks. This phase also includes demonstrating the company's next-gen robotic system, capable of harvesting 75 percent of the crop through robotic picking, packing, sorting, and grading. Phase two will fully populate the farm with robotics in 2026.

In addition to South Mills Champs, several farms in Europe have committed to adopting the technology, signalling international interest and the broad applicability of these solutions.