Robots set to preserve the Queen’s jams

FAVOURITE Strawberry

THE maker of the Queen’s favourite jam is going hi-tech, using artificial intelligence and drones.

Wilkin & Sons has supplied marmalade and other preserves to the royal household since 1911.

Now the firm, of Tiptree, Essex, together with scientists at Essex University will use drones and AI to predict disease outbreaks among strawberry plants.

Wireless sensors and computer vision will reduce incidents of mildew and improve crop yield.

Chris Newenham, of Wilkin & Sons, said: “Innovation is key to business growth, whether it’s on our farm, in our factory, or the way that we treat people and adapt our products.”

The project will help with the reduction in fruitpickers, due to Covid-19.

CASE Egglesden yesterday