Nanomaterial-Based Biosensors for Aflatoxin B1 Detection: Current Advances, Challenges, and Prospects

Aflatoxins (AFTs) are mycotoxins recognized as the key contributors to environmental and food contamination. AFTs can contaminate food and raw materials at different phases of manufacturing, transformation, processing, distribution, and marketing. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is the most harmful one among AFTs, and it exhibits potent toxic and carcinogenic effects in animals and humans. Currently, the efficient, fast, and sensitive methods for the early detection and monitoring of AFB1 in processed food and raw materials are urgently required. Nanomaterials, which possess unique physical, chemical, and optical properties, have gained increased traction in the manufacturing and improvement of biosensors for the detection sensitivity to AFB1. Herein, a comprehensive review of the development of nanomaterials-based biosensors for the detection of AFB1 in food and raw materials and their potential applications is provided. Additionally, the sensitivity, selectivity, and effectiveness in the detection of real samples are discussed. The biosensors aimed at AFB1 screening are highlighted using novel nanomaterials such as noble metal nanomaterials, quantum dots, and carbon-based nanomaterials. This review provides new information and insightful commentary, representing an important starting point for the future development and innovation of further innovative detection methods for AFB1 in food and raw materials.