A 3D printed smartphone integrated platform for real time curcumin detection is food samples

What is it about?

COVID-19 pandemic has significantly influenced the dietary habits of humans, emphasizing the incorporation of natural ingredients to enhance immunity towards viral and bacterial infections. Curcumin (Cur), a widely used traditional medicine in various Asian countries and a natural coloring agent, has gained popularity, leading to surge in its usage specially in post COVID-19 era. This surge has led to increased scrutiny of the potential side effects of excessive Cur use, with recent reports suggesting it may result in inactivation of DNA and reduce adenosine triphosphate levels, leading to health risks. In this work, we synthesized highly fluorescent nitrogen-doped carbon dots responsive towards curcumin. The developed fluorescent probe exhibits excellent sensory response towards Cur with good sensitivity and working range The sensor was successfully tested on real food samples like ginger powder, turmeric powder, and curry powder, demonstrating good recovery rates. To assess the practicality of the sensor system, we developed a 3D-printed smartphone-integrated device platform for curcumin detection through fluorescence image analysis. This device platform holds significant potential for the development of efficient sensors for real-time detection of Cur in food samples.

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Why is it important?

Post COVID-19, humans started using traditional herbs and medicines excessively owing to the common misconception that it increases immunity. Some of the compounds requires medical expert intervention as large doses can create health hazards. This work tries to address this issue by taking curcumin as an example and how they can be detected in food matrices through optically active carbon dots and a 3D printed smartphone integrated compact and rapid platform.

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