A recent study out of Alexandria University examines how near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy has been combatting the illegal spice trade.
Near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy is a vibrational spectroscopy technique used to analyze the absorption bands resulting from combination vibrational bands of the molecules within a sample (1). It is often used in the food and beverage industry to verify the authenticity of various food products. According to a study published in Trends in Food Science and Technology, NIR spectroscopy can be used to not only verify spice authenticity, but also detect adulteration and identify its geographical origin (2).
The global spice industry is a lucrative industry. According to a study published in 2020, the global spice market exceeded $20 billion (3). Many spices are expensive because of the labor-intensive processes required for their preparation (3). Spices are produced worldwide, from small plots to large, mechanized farms, and pass through multiple stages in the supply chain, increasing the risk of fraud and contamination. Because of these processes, spices can be adulterated, contaminated, or substituted with cheap or harmful materials (3). These unethical practices not only undermine consumer trust, cause potential health issues, and also threaten the economic interests of genuine producers.
composition with different spices and herbs | Image Credit: © andriigorulko - stock.adobe.com.
Shawky and the team explored this issue in depth by highlighting the potential of NIR spectroscopy as a solution to these issues, thanks to the technique’s rapid, non-destructive, and multi-component analysis capabilities. The researchers explained how NIRS technology operates by measuring the absorption of near-infrared light by various components in a sample (2). This absorption pattern, or spectrum, provides a unique "fingerprint" for each substance, making it an effective tool for identifying and verifying the composition of spices (2). The technique's ability to perform comprehensive analyses quickly and without damaging samples makes it highly suitable for the spice industry (2).
The study acknowledges the current state of NIR spectroscopy applications in spice authentication and explores recent technological advancements. One notable development is the advent of portable NIRS devices, which have the potential to revolutionize the field by enabling on-site, real-time analysis (2). These portable devices enhance the precision and versatility of NIR spectroscopy, making it more accessible and practical for industry professionals (2).
The industry has also benefitted from the integration of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) with NIR spectroscopy. What machine learning and AI are able to do is refine the accuracy of spice authentication, which is useful for distinguishing between genuine and adulterated products more effectively (2).
As the demand for authentic and high-quality spices continues to grow globally, the importance of robust authentication methods continues to be paramount. Shawky's review highlights the crucial role and advancements that NIR spectroscopy has played in the spice industry. The insights gained from this research are valuable not only for researchers and industry professionals, but also for policymakers who aim to regulate and protect the spice market.
By addressing the challenges and limitations of current NIRS applications, the researchers hope to contribute to the ongoing efforts to ensure the authenticity of spices in the global market. As technology continues to advance, the integration of NIRS with other emerging technologies promises to further enhance its effectiveness, safeguarding the interests of consumers and legitimate stakeholders in the spice industry.
(1) Bec, K. B.; Grabska, J.; Huck, C. W. Near-Infrared Spectroscopy in Bio-Applications. Molecules 2020, 25 (12), 2948. DOI: 10.3390/molecules25122948
(2) Shawky, E.; Nahar, L.; Nassief, S. M.; et al. Spice Authentication by Near-Infrared Spectroscopy: Current Advances, Limitations, and Future Perspectives. Trends Food Sci. Technol. 2024, 148, 104522. DOI: 10.1016/j.tifs.2024.104522
(3) Ford, P. W.; Berger, T. A.; Jackoway, G. Spice Authentication by Fully Automated Chemical Analysis with Integrated Chemometrics. J. Chromatogr. A. 2022, 1667, 462889. DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2022.462889
Best of the Week: AI, Rapid Food Analysis, Agriculture Analysis, and Soil Property Prediction
September 6th 2024Top articles published this week include a review article on the latest research in agriculture analysis, a peer-reviewed article on near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy, and an interview about using fluorescence spectroscopy in cheese ripening.
AI-Powered Spectroscopy Faces Hurdles in Rapid Food Analysis
September 4th 2024A recent study reveals on the challenges and limitations of AI-driven spectroscopy methods for rapid food analysis. Despite the promise of these technologies, issues like small sample sizes, misuse of advanced modeling techniques, and validation problems hinder their effectiveness. The authors suggest guidelines for improving accuracy and reliability in both research and industrial settings.
Non-Linear Memory-Based Learning Advances Soil Property Prediction Using vis-NIR Spectral Data
September 3rd 2024Researchers from Zhejiang University have developed a new non-linear memory-based learning (N-MBL) model that enhances the prediction accuracy of soil properties using visible near-infrared (vis-NIR) spectroscopy. By comparing N-MBL with traditional machine learning and local modeling methods, the study reveals its superior performance, particularly in predicting soil organic matter and total nitrogen.
Measuring Muscle Oxidation in Athletes with Near-Infrared Spectroscopy
September 2nd 2024A recent article authored by scientists from the Institute of Sport and Preventive Medicine, part of the University of Saarland (Saarbrücken, Germany), discusses their investigation of the absolute and relative test-retest reliability of the Moxy Monitor, as well as their investigations into side differences of oxygen saturation at the vastus lateralis muscle of both legs in male cyclists.