The Use of Infrared Spectroscopy for the Quantification of Bioactive Compounds in Food: A Review

Abstract

Infrared spectroscopy (wavelengths ranging from 750–25,000 nm) offers a rapid means of assessing the chemical composition of a wide range of sample types, both for qualitative and quantitative analyses. Its use in the food industry has increased significantly over the past five decades and it is now an accepted analytical technique for the routine analysis of certain analytes. Furthermore, it is commonly used for routine screening and quality control purposes in numerous industry settings, albeit not typically for the analysis of bioactive compounds. Using the Scopus database, a systematic search of literature of the five years between 2016 and 2020 identified 45 studies using near-infrared and 17 studies using mid-infrared spectroscopy for the quantification of bioactive compounds in food products. The most common bioactive compounds assessed were polyphenols, anthocyanins, carotenoids and ascorbic acid. Numerous factors affect the accuracy of the developed model, including the analyte class and concentration, matrix type, instrument geometry, wavelength selection and spectral processing/pre-processing methods. Additionally, only a few studies were validated on independently sourced samples. Nevertheless, the results demonstrate some promise of infrared spectroscopy for the rapid estimation of a wide range of bioactive compounds in food matrices.

Assessment of bioactive compounds in faba bean using infrared spectroscopy

“…Although MIRS has previously been reported for the prediction of TP content in common bean flour (Carbas et al, 2020) and other sample matrices (Johnson, Mani, et al, 2020), no accurate calibration models could be developed from the MIR spectra in this study for any of the analytes investigated. This concurs with a general dearth of MIR studies reporting the prediction of TP content or antioxidant capacity in any matrix (but particularly grains) among the recent literature (Johnson, Walsh, et al, 2023). Although several of the analytes showed moderate R 2 values in the calibration models, none showed acceptable performance when applied to the independent test set.…”

Approaches, Strategies and Procedures for Identifying Anti-Inflammatory Drug Lead Molecules from Natural Products

“…It is highly sensitive, requiring only a small sample amount, and accommodates a wide range of matrix types—solids, powders, films, gels, liquids, and gases—without generating waste [ 207 ]. However, challenges arise in interpreting spectra from intricate mixtures and the necessity to establish and maintain resilient calibration models for quantitative analysis [ 208 ]. Further, the need for an exhaustive database and the complexity and overlapping nature of spectral features limit its automated structure elucidation potential.…”

A Scoping Review on Carotenoid Profiling in Passiflora spp.: A Vast Avenue for Expanding the Knowledge on the Species

“…In this study, it was observed that NIR and MIR techniques were not suitable for the β-carotene, and the authors justify the low concentration of these compounds compared to other components of the food. Infrared spectroscopy techniques are known for being best suited for macroconstituents (≥0.5%), and its application for the quantification of bioactive compounds in foods, including carotenoids, was recently reviewed by Johnson et al (2023) [90]. The use of these direct, non-destructive analysis techniques would facilitate real-time sample monitoring without extensive preparation, presenting a significant advantage over traditional methods by reducing chemical and time consumption [91,92].…”