Paper-Based Electrochemical Biosensors for Food Safety Analysis.

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Biosensor Technology
• Food Safety Science

Background:

• Foodborne pathogens and contaminants pose significant global health risks.
• Current detection methods often lack the required speed, sensitivity, portability, or user-friendliness.
• There is a critical need for advanced analytical tools to ensure food safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the development and application of paper-based electrochemical biosensors for food safety analysis.
• To highlight the advantages and potential of these biosensors in detecting various food contaminants.
• To discuss recent advancements in device design, fabrication, and electrode modification.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on paper-based electrochemical biosensors (e-PADs).
• Discussion of 2D and 3D device designs and fabrication techniques.
• Analysis of electrode modification strategies using nanomaterials for enhanced analyte detection.
• Examination of bioassay types including enzyme-, antigen/antibody-, DNA-, aptamer-, and cell-based assays.

Main Results:

• Paper-based electrochemical biosensors offer miniaturization, low sample consumption, and cost-effective mass production.
• Various designs and electrode modifications, particularly with nanomaterials, improve sensitivity and detection capabilities.
• e-PADs have demonstrated effectiveness in detecting foodborne pathogens, pesticides, drug residues, allergens, and heavy metals.
• The reviewed sensors are typically small, portable, and suitable for field applications.

Conclusions:

• Paper-based electrochemical biosensors (e-PADs) represent a promising platform for food safety analysis.
• Their user-friendliness, low cost, sensitivity, and portability make them ideal for on-site detection.
• e-PADs have high potential for customization, addressing specific analytical needs in food safety monitoring.