研究目的
To assess the application of the Laser Direct Infrared (LDIR) imaging system as a rapid screening technology for detection, identification, and semi-quantitation of adulterants in food ingredients.
研究成果
LDIR showed promising results for screening analysis of economically motivated adulteration (>5%) in food matrices. The method developed based on LDIR technology showed high sensitivity and selectivity for the detection of nitrogen-rich compounds and bulking agents from dry blending adulteration. The method sensitivity and selectivity achieved 100% when the method takes into account the presence of nitrogen-rich compounds and bulking agent. On the other hand, the method sensitivity for detection of nitrogen-rich compounds can range from 98% to 99% when the statistics are performed using samples containing concentrations greater than or equal to 5% of equivalent protein. At 1% protein equivalent, LDIR detected 51 out of 62 (sensitivity of 82%) adulterated samples containing nitrogen-rich compounds, except for wheat flour. Therefore, the results reported in this study shows great potential of LDIR technique to use for food adulteration detection.
研究不足
The detection and identification of food adulterants in samples prepared by wet blending process was more challenging than dry blended samples because mid-infrared technology may not be sensitive enough to detect adulterants if they are dissolved or if hidden within the particles.