Applied Sciences
| Open Access | Advanced Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy and Nanobiosensor Technologies For Ultra-Sensitive Detection of Chemical Contaminants in Food Systems
Ananya R. Mehta , Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Melbourne, AustraliaAbstract
The increasing prevalence of chemical contaminants in food systems, including heavy metals and pesticide residues, necessitates the development of highly sensitive, rapid, and reliable detection technologies. This research article provides a comprehensive and integrative analysis of advanced nanotechnology-driven sensing systems, with a primary focus on surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) and nanobiosensor platforms. Drawing exclusively from the provided references, the study evaluates the theoretical foundations, material innovations, detection mechanisms, and practical applications of nanosensors in food safety. The methodology employs a qualitative synthesis of interdisciplinary research encompassing nanomaterials, spectroscopy, biosensing, and green analytical chemistry. The findings reveal that SERS-based detection systems, particularly those utilizing hybrid nanostructures such as Au@AgPt nanoparticles, graphene composites, and nanorod arrays, demonstrate exceptional sensitivity and selectivity for detecting trace levels of heavy metals and pesticide residues. Additionally, emerging nanomaterials such as MXenes and organic chemical nanosensors offer novel pathways for enhanced signal transduction and multifunctional sensing. The integration of nanobiosensors with environmentally sustainable sample preparation techniques further enhances analytical efficiency while reducing ecological impact. However, challenges related to reproducibility, standardization, and real-world implementation remain significant. The discussion explores the broader implications of these technologies for food safety, regulatory frameworks, and public health, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation. The study concludes that the convergence of SERS technology, nanobiosensing, and green analytical approaches represents a transformative paradigm for ensuring food safety in complex and globalized food systems.
Keywords
SERS, nanobiosensors, food safety, pesticide detection
References
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Copyright (c) 2026 Ananya R. Mehta
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