Application of Molecularly Imprinted Polymers as Separation Tools for Determination of Aflatoxins in Food

Abstract

Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) have emerged as an innovative technology for the selective determination of aflatoxins, thus presenting a promising strategy for enhancing food safety. Aflatoxins are a potent group of mycotoxins that present significant health and economic challenges worldwide, highlighting the urgent need for rapid, affordable, and reliable detection techniques. This review discusses work published between 2015 and 2024 on the synthesis of MIPs for aflatoxins and the current advances in their application for aflatoxin determination, focusing on their integration into solid-phase extraction techniques. Further, the review explores the challenges associated with MIP-based approaches, including cross-reactivity, template leaching, and scalability, while discussing innovative solutions such as hybrid materials and green synthesis methods. MIPs are potential alternatives to traditional biorecognition elements, such as antibodies because they offer improved selectivity, stability, and reusability. Prospects for MIP applications in multiplex detection systems are also examined. This comprehensive study highlights MIPs' transformative potential in combating mycotoxin contamination, paving the way for safer and more efficient food monitoring systems.