The materials synthesized in deep eutectic solvents for the detection of food contaminants

The present review delves into the burgeoning field of deep eutectic solvents (DESs) and their application in the synthesis of materials for detecting food contaminants. DESs, as a green alternative to conventional solvents, offer a sustainable platform for material synthesis with unique properties such as low toxicity, biodegradability, and excellent solvation capability. This review comprehensively discusses the classification, preparation methods, and properties of the materials synthesized in DESs that make them ideal for the development of sensitive and selective analytical methods for food safety. It covers the synthesis of various functional materials in DESs, including noble metal nanoparticles, metal oxides, conductive polymers, hydrogels, carbon-based materials, molecularly imprinted polymers, chalcogenide materials, and metal-organic frameworks. These materials have demonstrated enhanced stability, selectivity, and sensitivity in the detection of food contaminants such as heavy metals, pesticides, and mycotoxins. This review also highlights the challenges and future directions in the application of DES-based materials, emphasizing the need for innovative materials to address the growing demand for rapid, accurate, and cost-effective food contaminant detection methods. By highlighting the latest research and developments, this review underscores the potential of materials synthesized with DESs for revolutionizing food safety monitoring through the detection and monitoring of contaminants in food products.