Raman imaging from microscopy to macroscopy: Quality and safety control of biological materials

Raman imaging can analyze biological materials by generating detailed chemical images. Over the past decade, significant advancements in Raman imaging and data analysis techniques have overcome problems such as long data acquisition and analysis times and poor sensitivity. In this review article, Raman spectroscopy and imaging are introduced and the corresponding computational methods for image data analysis are discussed. We provide an overview of the applications of this method in areas such as food, pharmaceutical, and biomedical sectors, with emphasis on recent developments that have helped industrialize its applications in various sectors. Finally, the current limitations and trends for future Raman imaging are outlined and discussed with a view toward new research practices for applying this technique more efficiently and adaptably in numerous sectors. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.