Enhancing food safety and quality: multiplex detection using smart nanostructured molecular logic technologies

Multi-target detection technology in food plays a key role in the field of food analysis, which can comprehensively and accurately assess the levels of multiple residues in food, thus ensuring food safety and quality. In recent years, smart nanostructured molecular logic technologies (SNMLT) have been widely employed in food multiplex detection. Of these, component materials-based SNMLT have attracted much attention owing to their rapid response, multifunctionality, programmability, and high sensitivity. Nevertheless, there is no review focusing on the SNMLT sensing platform for food multi-target detection. In the current review, the principles of operation and classification of SNMLT were first described, followed by a summary of the component materials and signal output strategies of SNMLT. Besides, the applications of SNMLT in food multiplex assay, including physical, biological, and chemical hazard factors and food quality detection were also highlighted. Finally, future challenges in SNMLT sensing were summarized and discussed. The review indicates that SNMLT has the advantages of a wide detection range, strong anti-interference ability, and the ability to analyze multiple target analytes simultaneously and future research can focus on combining SNMLT with artificial intelligence to develop inexpensive and easy-to-use smart sensing devices.