Introduction:

Fresh products, including vegetables, fruits, and flowers, possess a dynamic nature characterized by respiration rates influenced by temperature, CO2 and O2 levels, and the plant hormone ethylene. Effective management of these factors is crucial for extending shelf-life and maintaining product quality. This article explores the potential of modern and affordable biosensors in revolutionizing the production and shelf-life management of fresh products in the food industry.

I. Understanding Respiration and Its Impact:

1. Respiration in Fresh Products:

• Fresh products undergo respiration, a metabolic process involving the exchange of gases (CO2 and O2) and the production of energy.
• Respiration rates are influenced by temperature, with higher rates at elevated temperatures leading to accelerated deterioration.
• The production of ethylene, a plant hormone, can also impact the respiration process and influence ripening and senescence.

2. Factors Influencing Shelf-Life:

• The respiration process affects the shelf-life of fresh products by promoting various physiological changes, including softening, discoloration, and nutrient degradation.
• Accumulation of CO₂ and depletion of O₂ within the product environment can accelerate deterioration and affect quality attributes.
• Ethylene production can stimulate ripening and lead to reduced shelf-life, particularly in climacteric fruits and flowers.

II. Role of Biosensors in Fresh Product Management:

1. Real-Time Monitoring:

• Biosensors provide real-time monitoring of temperature, CO₂ and O₂ levels, and ethylene production, enabling precise control and management of fresh products.
• These sensors can be integrated into packaging materials, storage facilities, or even directly attached to the products themselves for continuous monitoring.

2. Non-Invasive and Portable Solutions:

• Modern biosensors offer non-invasive and portable solutions, allowing for easy deployment throughout the supply chain, from farm to consumer.
• These sensors can be designed as wearable devices, smart labels, or handheld instruments, enabling efficient monitoring and decision-making at various stages.

3. Improved Quality Control:

• Biosensors enable proactive quality control by providing real-time data on critical parameters, allowing for timely interventions.
• Temperature sensors ensure optimal storage conditions, preventing temperature abuse and reducing the risk of spoilage.
• Monitoring CO₂ and O₂ levels aids in maintaining the desired gas composition, preventing anaerobic conditions or excessive oxidation.
• Ethylene sensors offer insights into ripening patterns, allowing for precise management and extending the shelf-life of climacteric products.

III. Advancements in Modern and Affordable Biosensors:

1. Printed Biosensors:

• Printed biosensors utilize cost-effective printing techniques to fabricate sensors on flexible substrates, enabling mass production at a low cost.
• These sensors can be integrated into smart packaging or labels, providing real-time data on temperature, gas levels, and ethylene production.

2. Nanotechnology-Enabled Biosensors:

• Nano-materials such as nanowires, nanoparticles, and nanocomposites enhance the sensitivity and selectivity of biosensors.
• Nanotechnology facilitates the development of compact and low-cost biosensors, which can be integrated into handheld devices or wearable technologies.

3. Internet of Things (IoT) Integration:

• Biosensors can be seamlessly integrated with IoT platforms, enabling data collection, analysis, and remote monitoring.
• IoT connectivity enhances traceability, facilitates data-driven decision-making, and optimises supply chain management for fresh products.

IV. Future Implications and Benefits:

1. Extended Shelf-Life:

• Real-time monitoring and control using biosensors allow for optimised storage conditions, resulting in extended shelf-life for fresh products.
• Reduced spoilage and waste contribute to sustainability efforts and economic benefits for producers and retailers.

2. Enhanced Quality and Consumer Satisfaction:

• Precise management of temperature, gas levels, and ethylene production ensures better quality attributes, such as texture, color, and nutrient retention.
• Consumers benefit from fresher and longer-lasting products, enhancing satisfaction and loyalty.

3. Supply Chain Optimisation:

• Biosensors enable supply chain stakeholders to make informed decisions regarding inventory management, distribution, and product rotation.
• Accurate data on freshness and quality allow for more efficient logistics planning, reducing product losses and improving overall supply chain efficiency.

Conclusion:

The integration of modern and affordable biosensors in the fresh product management process has the potential to revolutionize the food industry. Real-time monitoring of temperature, gas levels, and ethylene production enables precise control, extending shelf-life, improving quality, and minimizing waste. As technology continues to advance, the widespread adoption of biosensors throughout the supply chain will contribute to a more sustainable and efficient fresh product industry.