A Benzothiazole-Derived Nanohybrid Material Tailored Smart Strip: A Smartphone-Assisted Colorimetric Kit for the...

Elevated levels of biogenic polyamines, specifically spermidine, have been linked to several foodborne diseases, thereby compromising global food safety and quality standards worldwide. It has also been recognized as a key biomarker for cancer diagnosis in early stages. Therefore, estimating spermidine levels is a crucial indicator in controlling foodborne illnesses. To address this, we propose a benzothiazole-based nanohybrid material, KK1-ZnO nanohybrid material + Cu(I), to analyze spermidine levels. The performance of KK1-ZnO nanohybrid material + Cu(I) toward detecting spermidine has been evaluated by a series of spectroscopic and electrochemical techniques. Further, a cost-effective, easy-to-use Smart Strip-based portable colorimetric kit has been proposed to visually analyze safe spermidine levels in food samples. This Smart Strip enables on-site detection and quantification of spermidine levels by comparing the Hue, Saturation, and Value (HSV) parameters for easy analysis. The pale-yellow strips coated with the KK1-ZnO nanohybrid material + Cu(I) turned greenish-blue upon exposure to spermidine. The Smart Strip kit offers different reference levels for easy comparison and quantification, thereby promoting human health and well-being. With this technology, one can easily assess spermidine levels in food samples, supporting healthier dietary decisions and overall well-being.