Automated sample preparation systems for food analysis: A mini-review.

Abstract

Sample preparation has emerged as an essential component in complex food matrix analysis. Automated systems integrate precise machine operation, cutting-edge sample extraction methodologies and sophisticated detection equipment, and have been proven to effectively improve the accuracy and detection efficiency in food analysis. This review provides a mini-overview of automated sample preparation methods currently employed in the field of food analysis. These primarily encompass automated solid-phase extraction methods, microfluidics, robotic systems and integration with detection equipment. In addition, the main challenges currently faced by automated sample preparation were discussed, and suggestions for future research directions were also proposed. This review aims to serve as a reference for researchers in the field and facilitate their work on automated sample preparation methods for food analysis.