Cutting-Edge Emerging Spectroscopic Techniques: Advancements and Diverse Applications for Next Generation Opportunities
Authors
Diwakar Singh1 , *Senior Technologist, Jerome Cheese Company, Idaho, USA, 83338.
Dr. Akashamrut M. Patel2 , 2Assistant Professor, Food Safety and Quality Assurance Department, College of Food Processing Technology & Bioenergy, Anand Agricultural University, Anand 388110, India.
Publication Details
Journal: Vijoriya International Journal for Research & Innovation
ISSN: 3107-9806
Volume: 2 Issue: 1
Year: January – June 2026
Published on: 26 April, 2026
Pages: 22–38
DOI: https://doi.org/10.65595/vijri.v2i1.003
Abstract
Raman and infrared (IR) spectroscopy, powerful techniques for molecular analysis, provide critical insights into biomolecular interactions, offering non-invasive solutions for diagnostics, imaging, and tissue analysis. Peer-reviewed literature from databases underpins this review of emerging food safety technologies. Optical biosensors and spectroscopic methods enable rapid, non-destructive detection of pathogens, toxins, pesticides, and adulterants. Integration of spectroscopy with nanomaterials and artificial intelligence supports real-time, scalable monitoring, molecular fingerprinting, and improved quality assessment across complex food supply chains globally. Recent innovations in mid-infrared (MIR) spectroscopy, including cost-effective sensors and plasmon-enhanced methods like surface-enhanced infrared absorption (SEIRA), have significantly boosted sensitivity, enabling trace molecule detection. Advancements in nano-antennas and Attenuated Total Reflectance (ATR)-SEIRAS enhance real-time, label-free molecular analysis across bioanalysis, electrochemical studies, and more. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy remains a high-resolution tool for analyzing diverse systems, including nanodiamonds, microbiology, and food safety, with ATR-FTIR offering non-destructive analysis of thick samples, strengthening its role in biosensing and protein research. Terahertz (THz) spectroscopy, tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS), and Quartz tuning fork (QTF)-based sensing are advancing analytical capabilities in food quality, material characterization, and trace gas detection, with each technique offering unique strengths in non-destructive, high-resolution, and highly sensitive analyses for diverse industrial and scientific applications. This review delves into the mechanisms behind these techniques, their evolving applications, and the challenges they face. It also highlights the promising future of these spectroscopic methods in expanding analytical capabilities, particularly in real-time molecular analysis, environmental monitoring, and complex biological systems.
Keywords: Mid-infrared spectroscopy, Surface-enhanced infrared absorption, Attenuated Total Reflectance, Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy, Real-time molecular analysis, Biosensing and diagnostics