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Rapid and Portable Screening Methods for Detecting Food Adulterants in Milk and Milk Products

Vinutha Kommineni, V. Chetana Chowdary, T. Pavani, M. Srija, Madhuri Kumari, A. Ashwitha, Ch. Jyothshna Sri, G. Sudha Rani, P. Sridevi

Abstract


Milk adulteration remains a major food safety issue, creating the need for rapid, affordable, and field-applicable detection methods. This review presents recent developments in portable analytical technologies designed for on-site identification of adulterants in milk and dairy products. Paper-based analytical devices (PADs) have gained importance as inexpensive and environmentally sustainable colorimetric tools suitable for use in rural areas. Lateral flow immunoassays (LFIAs) provide quick and selective detection of contaminants using antibody-based recognition systems. Biosensors that integrate biological recognition elements with electrochemical or optical signal generation offer high sensitivity for compounds such as urea and melamine. Smartphone-assisted platforms further improve portability and enable real-time quantification. Portable spectroscopic instruments, including handheld infrared and Raman devices, allow rapid and non-destructive screening of adulterants. In addition, handheld milk refractometers serve as convenient field tools for evaluating dilution and estimating solids-not-fat (SNF) levels. Together, these approaches combine laboratory-level performance with field-level practicality. This review discusses their operational principles, advantages, limitations, and applicability in different adulteration contexts, emphasizing their role in protecting milk quality and consumer health.


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