Low-cost colorimetric strip for real-time monitoring of protein-rich food shelf life
Innovative colorimetric strip technology using gold colloids and amine-reactive polymers for accurate, low-cost monitoring of biogenic amines in protein-rich foods, offering real-time shelf-life assessment and improved decision-making from farm to table.
Overview
This low-cost, colorimetric sensing strip is designed to monitor the shelf life of protein-rich foods by detecting volatile biogenic amines (BAs), which are key biomarkers for food spoilage. Traditional methods for BA detection are often unreliable and expensive, relying on visual cues or complex genetic tests. This innovative strip technology provides a real-time, on-site solution that empowers both factory personnel and consumers with accurate data for improved food quality assessment and decision-making.
Technical specifications
The strip utilizes a combination of gold colloids and amine-reactive polymers, specifically Poly(maleic anhydride) (PMA), which reacts with biogenic amines to cause a visible color change from red to purple. This process is facilitated by the collapse of gold nanoparticles when the charge of the PMA polymer changes due to amine interaction. Key features include:
- Single-use, disposable design for ease of use
- Polyester substrate coated with PMA for effective reaction with food fluids
- Sealed control lane to ensure accuracy
- Blister pack storage for the AuNP solution, activated upon testing
- Compatibility with various surfaces like plastic, paper, and foam
- Detection limits as low as 20 mg/kg of BAs
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at TRL 4, with ongoing validation efforts focused on reagent optimization, strip integration, and testing under varied storage conditions. Future steps include refining the strip's sensitivity and performance across different food types and storage environments, with testing planned over extended periods to simulate real-world conditions.
About Georgia State University
Georgia State University is a comprehensive public research university in downtown Atlanta, serving a large and diverse student body with a rapidly growing research enterprise. An urban innovation district and co-located collaboration spaces link faculty and students with corporate partners for prototyping, user testing, and joint problem-solving. Shared core laboratories and campus computing resources support industry-sponsored work, while proximity to Fortune 500 headquarters, major hospital systems, and the CDC enables quick access to real-world testbeds. Research is backed by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NIH, NSF, and DoD. A dedicated technology transfer office streamlines IP, licensing, and startup formation to speed commercialization.
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