Meet Jujube and the Pits, a UC Merced senior engineering team that worked with UCANR, F3 Local, and VISTA last semester to design a machine that pits jujube fruit while preserving its shape and quality.

Their innovation supports small farmers and brings attention to this underused, nutrient-rich crop grown in the Central Valley. The team showcased their solution at Innovate to Grow, highlighting the power of student-led agtech.

A smart blend of engineering and community impact—this project shows how local collaboration can create real change in food and farming.

Well done to the team for turning a niche challenge into practical innovation!