Portable Fluorescence Histamine Sensor for Assessing Freshness Utilizing Hydrogel Embedded with Dual-Ligand Europium...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Analytical Chemistry
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Histamine, a biogenic amine found in spoiled food, is a critical marker for seafood freshness.
• Accurate and efficient methods for histamine detection are essential for food safety.
• Current detection methods may lack the sensitivity or portability required for on-site assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and synthesize a novel dual-emission europium-metal-organic framework (Eu-MOF) for histamine detection.
• To develop a ratiometric fluorescence sensing strategy for quantifying histamine.
• To create a portable detection system for assessing seafood freshness.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of a dual-emission Eu-MOF using 5-boronoisophthalic acid (5-BOP) and 2-hydroxyterephthalic acid (BDC-OH) ligands.
• Utilizing the antenna effect of Eu3+ for red emission (618 nm) and BDC-OH for blue emission (434 nm).
• Fabrication of a hydrogel composite film incorporating the Eu-MOF for practical application.

Main Results:

• The Eu-MOF exhibited dual-emission fluorescence responsive to histamine, with a decrease in the 618 nm/434 nm emission ratio.
• A linear detection range for histamine was established from 0 to 200 mg/L, with a low limit of detection (0.17 mg/L).
• The hydrogel composite film allowed for visual, semi-quantitative detection of histamine, indicating seafood freshness.

Conclusions:

• The developed ratiometric fluorescence sensing strategy using Eu-MOF is effective for sensitive histamine detection.
• The portable hydrogel composite film offers a reliable and efficient method for on-site seafood freshness assessment.
• This approach provides a promising tool for ensuring food safety and quality.