On-site quality control and protection against product counterfeiting by handheld NIR spectroscopy: anytime, anywhere

Abstract

The present review article considers the rapid development of miniaturized handheld near-infrared spectrometers over the last decade and provides a short overview of current instrumental developments and exemplary applications in the fields of material and food control. Care is taken, however, not to fall into the exaggerated and sometimes overoptimistic narrative of some direct-to-consumer companies, which has raised unrealistic expectations with full-bodied promises, but has harmed the very valuable technology of NIR spectroscopy, rather than promoting its further development. Particular attention is paid to potential applications that will enable a clientele that is not necessarily scientifically trained to solve quality control and authentication problems in everyday life with this technology in the not-too-distant future.