Construction of a Novel Fluorescent Probe for On-site Measuring Hydrogen Sulfide Levels in Food Samples

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has been involved in many foodstuffs and beverages. On-site measuring the H2S level in food samples was beneficial to the concerns about food safety and food quality. Herein, we rationally constructed a novel fluorescent probe to track the H2S levels in various food samples. The optical experiments indicated that the probe displayed highly selective and sensitive response to H2S. In addition, the probe can function well in a wide pH value condition, providing a reliable platform to sense H2S. The practical application demonstrated that the probe was applied for tracking H2S levels in banana, grape, and vinegar for the first time. Importantly, by fabricating test strips, the probe was first served to monitor the released H2S in raw meat without relying on elaborate instrumentation. Thus, the probe could be employed as a simple tool to measure the H2S levels in various food samples, as well as to monitor the fresh-like quality of raw meat under on-site conditions.