Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 8, 2026
Highly Sensitive and Rapid Fluorescence Detection with a Portable FRET Analyzer
Published on: October 1, 2016
Rapid determination of reducing sugars in demerara sugar using a sustainable smartphone-based digital colorimetry
Vandressa Alves1, Isabel M P L V O Ferreira2, Maria L Felsner3
1Department of Chemistry, Midwestern Parana State University (UNICENTRO), Vila Carli, Zip Code 85040-080, Guarapuava city, Paraná, Brazil; LAQV/REQUIMTE, Chemical Sciences Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Zip Code, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal.
Abstract:
This study presents a novel, eco-friendly, and rapid method for determining low levels of reducing sugars in Demerara sugar using smartphone-assisted digital image colorimetry with the Benedict reaction (DIC-Benedict). Designed as a practical alternative for regulatory analyses, the method emphasizes simplicity, low cost, and on-site applicability. Optimized reagent volume and image acquisition distance ensured robust performance, with adequate linearity (R2 > 99.8%) and detection and quantification limits of 0.04% and 0.20% (w/v), respectively. Matrix effects were minimized by standard addition calibration, ensuring high accuracy (recoveries: 94.9-104.9%) and precision (RSD < 2.0%). Reducing sugar levels in 20 commercial samples ranged from 0.29 to 0.74%, mainly influenced by processing conditions rather than origin. Green metrics (AGREE: 0.6; BAGI: 72.5) confirmed environmental compatibility. Overall, the DIC-Benedict method demonstrates that digital technologies can integrate with classical reactions to provide cost-effective, portable, and sustainable solutions for food analysis and quality control.
