Recent advances in the detection of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in food: A review of optical sensors, electrochemical sensors, and biosensors

Abstract

Background

Food safety concerns have drawn significant public attention as incidents of food contamination have become increasingly common. Among various food contaminants, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have raised particular concern due to their persistence, bioaccumulation, and associated human health risks. Although advanced technologies such as chromatography and mass spectrometry are widely used for PFAS detection, these methods are often limited by their operational complexity, time-consuming procedures, and high costs. To overcome these limitations, novel approaches using optical sensors, electrochemical sensors, and biosensors have been developed for PFAS detection in food.

Scope and approach

This review presents the principles and recent applications of optical sensors for PFAS detection, highlighting the materials used and categorizing sensing strategies based on optical properties and signal variations. Additionally, it summarizes recent progress in electrochemical sensor technologies with emphasis on advanced fabrication techniques involving voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and electrochemiluminescence. The review also explores the current status and potential of biosensors as rapid, cost-effective, and high-efficiency platforms for the detection and analysis of PFAS in food. Finally, it discusses future perspectives and ongoing challenges in the development and deployment of PFAS sensing technologies.

Key findings and conclusions

Optical, electrochemical, and biosensor-based methods offer promising alternatives for rapid, sensitive, cost-effective, and portable detection of PFAS in food. This review provides insights into emerging trends and offers perspectives on the future development of sensor technologies for enhanced food quality monitoring and public health protection.