Identification of infant formula is of importance for the health of newborns and economic concerns. However, recent analytical techniques require expensive and sophisticated equipment, labor-intensive sample preparation, time-consuming off-site processes, and trained personal. In this study, we present a fast and convenient fluorescence array-based sensing method, for the discrimination of commercial powdered infant formulas by their species, country, and brand. The ability of 9 fluorophores to discriminate 6 most abundant proteins in milk was initially evaluated. These fluorescent molecules generate non-specific interactions, including hydrophobics and electrostatics, upon contact with proteins in infant formula samples and produce response signals. The array was then systematically optimized into a final three-unit sensor array, consisting of conjugated polyelectrolytes PPE2, PPE-SO3, and PPE-N1. Multivariate statistical analysis was performed using LDA to recognize the response patterns. Our three-unit array demonstrated discrimination of 24 infant formula products according to 2 brands, 4 species (cow, sheep, goat, or soy), and 9 countries of origin, revealing its potential application in the use of quality control of infant formulas.

Discrimination of powdered infant formulas for species, country, and brand by a fluorescent sensor array

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

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