IoHOP: Quality valorization of the Italian hop based on a multi-approach strategy

Estefanía Núñez-Carmona 
IBBR - URT Reggio Emilia - Italy

May 13, 2026 (11:30-12:30)
Webinar Link: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/363916947932583?p=9HXQSAWri5tRP6PE9N

Abstract: The PRIN2022 IoHOP project developed an advanced, technology-driven framework for the quality valorization of Italian hop (Humulus lupulus L.), positioning hop cultivation within the paradigm of Agriculture 4.0 and precision farming. By integrating chemical analytics, smart sensing technologies, climate intelligence, microbiome engineering and pest dynamics, IoHOP delivers an innovative, data-oriented approach to sustainable hop production under Mediterranean conditions. A core technological outcome of the project is the establishment of a digital volatilome platform, generated through high-resolution GC-MS analyses, which enabled the identification of biochemical markers associated with optimal harvest timing, terroir differentiation, genotype-specific aroma traits and biotic stress responses. Based on these datasets, IoHOP designed and validated a custom-made triple metal-oxide (MOX) electronic device, capable of rapid, non-destructive and on-field discrimination of hop maturity stages, geographic origin, cultivated versus wild genotypes, and early pest infestation. This sensor-based system represents a scalable decision-support tool for real-time quality assessment and crop monitoring. IoHOP further integrated climate-driven risk modeling, combining long-term ERA5 reanalysis with high-resolution field meteorological data to link phenology, volatilome evolution and pest pressure, thus enabling predictive management strategies under climate change scenarios. In parallel, a large hop-associated microbiome biobank was established, leading to the selection and in planta validation of beneficial microbial strains with plant growth-promoting and biocontrol functions, supporting reduced chemical inputs. Overall, IoHOP demonstrates how sensor technologies, digital biomarkers and systems-level data integration can be operationalized within Agriculture 4.0 to enhance product quality, sustainability, traceability and resilience of emerging hop production systems. The project provides transferable technological solutions applicable to smart crop systems

Author's Info: https://ibbr.cnr.it/ibbr/info/people/estefania-nuez-carmona