Development of a low-cost paper-based microfluidic device for rapid detection of milk adulterants to ensure food safety

Milk adulteration is a significant issue, particularly in regions where food safety regulations are weak or inadequately enforced. A cost-effective and straightforward paper-based lab-on-a-chip (LOC) microfluidic device has been developed using a technique known as selective wax impregnation. This technology is advantageous as it requires neither costly equipment nor specialised workers. It can detect prevalent milk adulterants such as urea, detergent, boric acid, soap, and hydrogen peroxide by a combination of chemiluminescent and colorimetric chemical reactions. This provides both visual and quantitative results. A crucial aspect of this technique is its utilisation of a smartphone to capture images, which are subsequently processed on-site using ImageJ software. This device effectively enhances food safety in resource-limited areas and facilitates community-level quality control without dependence on centralised laboratories. It is user-friendly, portable, and cost-effective to produce.