Green sources for carbon dots synthesis in sensing for food application – A review

Carbon dots (CDs) are the most promising nanomaterials of zero-dimensional nanoparticle materials because they have strong fluorescence properties, good photoluminescence conversion, stability, and inter-charge transfer performance. CDs also have the advantages of good biocompatibility, low toxicity, and hydrophilic properties. CDs are generally synthesized through two approaches: top-down and bottom-up. Green synthesis of environmentally friendly CDs with easy and simple procedures has become an exciting concern lately and in the future. In addition to green synthesis, green carbon sources such as biomass waste have promising potential. The advantages of fluorescence CDs make them applicable in food sensing. Fluorescent resonance energy transfer, photoinduced electron transfer, and internal screening effect mechanisms enable precise detection of heavy metal ions, food additives, foodborne pathogens, nutrient composition, pesticide residues, and veterinary drug residues. This review provides a brief overview and future perspectives on green synthesis CDs and their applications for more advanced food sensing in food safety analysis.