Novel integration of lateral flow strip and point-of-care isothermal amplification techniques for meat adulteration detection: A comprehensive review

Background

Meat adulteration poses significant public health risks, violates religious and cultural practices, and raises moral and ethical concerns. The lateral flow strip (LFS) technique has achieved substantial commercial success and continues to play a significant role in meat adulteration detection. Conventional LFS relies on visual inspection of color changes in the test and control lines, providing only qualitative results. This approach cannot quantify specific animal species content in adulterated meats and often needs more sensitivity for reliable assays. Various quantitative and susceptible LFS methods have been developed in the past few years, with some entering the commercialization phase.

Scope and approach

This review critically and objectively examines the recent advancements in meat adulteration detection methods for poultry and livestock products, focusing on integrating LFS devices with isothermal amplification techniques (IATs). We explore the bio-recognition strategies between amplifications and LFS, label selection, multiplex detection capabilities, result readout methods, and DNA extraction protocols. The applications, advantages, and disadvantages of IATs-LFS are discussed, along with prospects for these integrated systems.

Key findings and conclusions

IATs-LFS have revolutionized meat adulteration detection by offering unparalleled speed, sensitivity, and usability advantages. As these technologies evolve, interdisciplinary collaboration across scientific disciplines will be vital in overcoming challenges and unlocking new opportunities. By harnessing innovations in molecular biology, materials science, and engineering, researchers can develop next-generation techniques that empower stakeholders in safeguarding food authenticity worldwide. The future promises continued advancements in IATs-LFS, positioning them as indispensable tools in the global battle against food fraud and adulteration.