Nanosensor platforms for detection of milk adulterants

Abstract

Milk is a substrate for adulteration, and it is crucial to identify adulterants, and their quantities in milk products. In order to safeguard consumers from fake products and health risks, authenticity of milk products is in high demand. Analytical tools that are comprehensive, quick, and sensitive are necessary to monitor milk quality and screen for any undesirable substances. The traditional methods for the detection of adulterants in milk products are experiencing more difficulties due to their poor selectivity, sensitivity, and unsuitability for complex matrices. The researchers are paying close attention to nanomaterial based sensing systems, which are seen to be among the most effective alternatives to the traditional approaches. This review focuses on optical and electrochemical nanosensors including mechanisms and performances, in relation to their benefits, drawbacks, and applicability to milk products. It also addresses new developments in the field of nanoemsembles platforms for the rapid detection of adulterants in dairy products. A section of particular interest is the detection of milk authenticity, as it is known that milk from different animal species are intermixed.