Applications of molecularly imprinted polymers and perspectives for their use as food quality trackers

Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs), often referred to as artifi-cialor plasticantibodies, are synthetic alternatives to natural re-ceptors. Based on the key-and-lockprinciple, a template is im-printed into a polymer, which is then able to selectively bind to a target molecule. Over the past 50 years, MIPs have continued to attract attention in both academic research and commercial appli-cations. MIPs have a wide range of applications in analytical chemis-try, medicine, and pharmaceutics, as well as in the environment. This paper highlights the new perspectives offered by molecularly imprinting technology to food science. Food analysis is challenging because of the complexity of food matrices and the low concentra-tion of analytes. MIPs are ideally suited to overcome both of these issues because of their high selectivity and sensitivity. Furthermore, MIPs could greatly benefit the entire food chain as a tool to ensure food safety, quality, and traceability, while reducing food waste.

Automated summary

Molecularly imprinted polymers, known as artificial or plastic antibodies, are synthetic alternatives to natural receptors that can selectively bind to target molecules. In the past few decades, MIPs have gained significant attention in both academic research and commercial applications. In the field of food science, MIPs offer new perspectives for food analysis, ensuring food safety and quality while reducing food waste.