Portable electrochemical sensing methodologies for on-site detection of pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables

Pesticide residues are posing an increasing threat to ecosystems and human health due to the over application of synthetic pesticides in pest control to meet the global demand for agricultural food products. In this regard, electrochemical sensor and biosensor platforms have emerged as powerful analytical methods to detect pesticides due to several advantages, including synergistic aspects, systematic fabrication procedure, ease of detection, appreciable sensitivity, and selectivity. Furthermore, portable electrochemical devices have been fabricated recently for point-of-care and on-site detection of pesticides residues. This comprehensive review focuses on recent advances in portable electrochemical (bio)sensing methods for the on-site detection of pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables. Moreover, detailed information has been provided on the principal mechanism and electrochemical (bio)sensing behavior of the specified strategies. Discussed the significant developments in electrochemical strategies and the integration of smartphone technology with electrochemical sensing platforms for real-time monitoring. It is anticipated that the current review will be an added advantage and valuable tool for scientific and technological readers to understand the fabrication of portable electrochemical devices, the role of electrochemical (bio)sensing strategies for rapid on-site detection of pesticides, and to promote further developments in agricultural science, electrochemical science, and food science and technology.(c) 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Due to over application of synthetic pesticides, pesticide residues pose an increasing threat to ecosystems and human health. Electrochemical sensor and biosensor platforms have emerged as powerful analytical methods for detecting pesticide residues, offering advantages such as synergistic aspects, systematic fabrication procedure, ease of detection, sensitivity, and selectivity. Additionally, portable electrochemical devices have been developed for on-site detection of pesticide residues.