Compact Optical Spectroscopy: The Future of Food Analytics in Your

Pocket

Anna G. Mign

ani and Leonardo Ciaccheri

CNR – Istituto di Fisica Applicata “Nello Carrara”, Via Madonna del Piano n.10, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino (FI), Italy

EXTENDED ABSTRACT

Optical spectroscopy is a game-changer for food

analysis, offering a cost-effective and eco-friendly

alternative to traditional methods. With rapid, non-

destructive measurements that eliminate the need

for harmful chemicals and solvents, optical

spectroscopy is revolutionizing green analytics for

food quality and safety. Its minimal sample

preparation saves time and resources, making it

increasingly popular in the industry.

Moreover, by leveraging chemometrics or other

AI algorithms to enhance the interpretation of

complex data, optical spectroscopy allows for

simultaneous analysis of multiple food components

simultaneously. Just a quick light shot, combined

with advanced spectroscopic training, provides

comprehensive quantitative and qualitative

assessments of various nutraceutical indicators all at

once. It's a smart, sustainable way to ensure the best

in food quality and safety.

While the mid-infrared band is known for its

detailed molecular fingerprinting, the near-infrared

(NIR) region is generating a buzz in food

applications. This is where the absorption of

overtones and combinations of molecular vibrations

involving C-H, O-H, and N-H bonds occur,

revealing crucial insights into food composition.

Photonic technologies initially developed for

telecommunications, generated an explosion of

compact light sources, detectors, micro-

spectrometers, spectral sensors, fiber optics, and

micro-photonic components. These innovations are

now transforming food control, providing compact,

robust, and low-cost instruments that are perfect for

online applications by users with minimal technical

training. This surge in new devices is driving a

steady increase in NIR applications for food

analysis.

In this talk, we'll explore the latest and most

compact NIR spectroscopy devices, including

pocket-sized and smartphone-connected models.

We'll discuss their applications in food analysis and

showcase their potential through live demos during

coffee breaks. Get ready to see how these powerful

tools can revolutionize food quality and safety, and

discover opportunities for future collaborations.

Mignani, A. G. and Ciaccheri, L.

Compact Optical Spectroscopy: The Future of Food Analytics in Your Pocket.

DOI: 10.5220/0013453400003902

In Proceedings of the 13th International Conference on Photonics, Optics and Laser Technology (PHOTOPTICS 2025), page 5

ISBN: 978-989-758-736-8; ISSN: 2184-4364