Pattern-based colorimetric sensor array to monitor food spoilage using automated high-throughput analysis

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Sensor Technology
• Food Science

Background:

• Existing methods for biogenic amine (BA) detection are reliable but not portable.
• There is a need for inexpensive, onsite devices for food-spoilage detection.
• Biogenic amines are key indicators of food quality and spoilage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a portable, field-deployable sensor array for discriminating biogenic amines in food.
• To create a portable reader for onsite determination of food quality based on BA levels.
• To evaluate the sensor array's efficacy in detecting specific biogenic amines relevant to food spoilage.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a cross-reactive sensor array using metal complexes of azophenol dye-based receptors (C1-C11).
• Utilizing a colorimetric response upon interaction with various amines (A1-A7).
• Applying multivariate statistical techniques (PCA, LDA) for data analysis and discrimination.
• Performing titration experiments to correlate colorimetric response with BA concentrations.
• Developing and employing a field-portable array reader for practical application.

Main Results:

• The sensor array generated unique visible responses for different amines.
• Multivariate analysis demonstrated effective discrimination of biogenic amines.
• Linear correlation (R² > 0.95) was observed between colorimetric response and concentrations of tryptamine and spermine.
• The portable reader successfully quantified biogenic amines in spiked meat and cottage cheese samples up to 40 μM.

Conclusions:

• The developed sensor array and portable reader offer a promising solution for onsite food quality monitoring.
• The system demonstrates potential for rapid, cost-effective detection of food-spoilage indicators.
• This technology could significantly enhance food safety and quality control measures.