A LAMP-based colorimetric and fluorescence dual-channel assay for on-site identification of adulterated meat by a portable device

Rapid on-site identification of meat adulteration is essential for ensuring food safety. The Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) technique is an ideal solution for on-site diagnosis due to its simplicity, speed, high specificity, and sensitivity. In this study, we designed pork-specific primers for LAMP and optimized the LAMP reaction conditions. By incorporating hydroxynaphthol blue and calcein indicators into the reaction system, the LAMP results can be visually observed without the need for specialized equipment. We also engineered a self-designed, portable device that integrates LAMP colorimetric and fluorescence detection, termed LAMP-PD, to achieve both amplification and dual-channel detection. This device is cost-effective, priced at only $54.65. The detection results from LAMP-PD were found to be comparable to those of commercial spectrophotometers, confirming its accuracy. The LAMP-PD is capable of detecting pork at concentrations as low as 0.1% in adulterated meat samples, highlighting the high sensitivity of the LAMP assay. The portability and affordability of the LAMP-PD underscore its significant potential for on-site identification of adulterated meat samples.