Mycotoxins detection in food using advanced, sensitive and robust electrochemical platform of sensors: A review

Mycotoxins constitute a grave threat to human health and life by causing significant losses in healthcare and trade and by contaminating food and feed. Diverse matrices and trace concentrations of mycotoxins in food make measurement and identification challenges, necessitating highly sensitive and specialized detection methods. Most nations, particularly the European Union, have implemented preventative programs to reduce contamination and stringent legislation about the permitted amounts in foods. Official methods of mycotoxin analysis typically require sophisticated instrumentation. Electrochemical (EC) sensors have emerged as a viable method for addressing specificity and sensitivity in detection due to their ease of use, exceptional sensitivity, low cost, and ease of miniaturization. Here is an overview of recent studies using electrochemical sensors and biosensors for mycotoxin detection for food safety. First, we summarize the conventional methods used for the monitoring of mycotoxins in food. Then, state-of-the-art electrochemical sensors for detecting noxious mycotoxins are discussed. The classification of various electrochemical detection techniques led to detailed descriptions of design strategies, recognition mechanisms, and probe materials. This review provides critical inspiration for future applications of electrochemical analysis and point-of-care testing for mycotoxins.