Final Report Summary - REFLAB (Development of a new-generation biosensor for the measurement of reducing sugars in potatoes and assessment of acrylamide formation)
In April 2002, the Stockholm University and the Swedish National Food Authority (SNFA) published the results of a research survey, which showed that unexpectedly high levels of acrylamide were generated in a wide range of starch-rich foods cooked by frying or baking. This finding was of great importance, because acrylamide is classified as a human neurotoxin, showing genotoxic and carcinogenic properties. The highest acrylamide levels were found in: french fries, potato chips, and other fried, deep-fried or oven-baked potato products. Both asparagine and reducing sugars can be found in potatoes in higher amounts than in any other starch-rich food products, and acrylamide is formed during the cooking of these components. By reducing the levels of reducing sugars in these food stuffs, it is believed, this will reduce the concentration of acylamide forming during the cooking process. The concentrations of reducing sugars can vary between 0.1 to 10 mg/g. The aim of REFLAB was therefore to develop a biosensor that allows the frequent monitoring of the reducing sugar levels during harvesting and storage of potatoes.
The final glucose biosensor developed during the REFLAB project is used for glucose detection in raw potatoes in order to give an indication of the estimated amount of acrylamide that would be produced during the frying and baking processes. During the REFLAB project at GEM, they reinforced their ability to take a product throughout feasibility studies, product development to scale up manufacturing level. At the end of the project, they were able to manufacture the glucose biosensor in controlled conditions at a level of 1 000 biosensors per day. Currently, GEM in collaboration with REFLAB partners are investigating ways to promote and sell the product to potato growers and processors.
The REFLAB biosensor device tackles these significant problems by developing a generic NADH-based biosensor. The new biosensor is characterised by a low detection limit (0.02 g/ L), wide range of thermostability (20 to 80 degrees Celsius) and the capacity to work both in oxidative and reductive conditions. Depending on the matrix to be analysed and the expected concentration, the user is able to decide between an anodic or cathodic potential. This is quite significant as there may be substances in the matrix such as vitamin C or phenolics, which are easily oxidised as well and thus, may significantly interfere in the measurement.
A project flyer has been prepared by GEM containing general information about the REFLAB project, mainly regarding the objectives and the project consortium description and contacts. This has been a valuable dissemination tool used by the partners. The flyer and direct e-mailing will continue to be the main force for contacting future customers in higher education, research and industry. Another very important means of dissemination is the project website put together by the coordinator.
The final glucose biosensor developed during the REFLAB project is used for glucose detection in raw potatoes in order to give an indication of the estimated amount of acrylamide that would be produced during the frying and baking processes. During the REFLAB project at GEM, they reinforced their ability to take a product throughout feasibility studies, product development to scale up manufacturing level. At the end of the project, they were able to manufacture the glucose biosensor in controlled conditions at a level of 1 000 biosensors per day. Currently, GEM in collaboration with REFLAB partners are investigating ways to promote and sell the product to potato growers and processors.
The REFLAB biosensor device tackles these significant problems by developing a generic NADH-based biosensor. The new biosensor is characterised by a low detection limit (0.02 g/ L), wide range of thermostability (20 to 80 degrees Celsius) and the capacity to work both in oxidative and reductive conditions. Depending on the matrix to be analysed and the expected concentration, the user is able to decide between an anodic or cathodic potential. This is quite significant as there may be substances in the matrix such as vitamin C or phenolics, which are easily oxidised as well and thus, may significantly interfere in the measurement.
A project flyer has been prepared by GEM containing general information about the REFLAB project, mainly regarding the objectives and the project consortium description and contacts. This has been a valuable dissemination tool used by the partners. The flyer and direct e-mailing will continue to be the main force for contacting future customers in higher education, research and industry. Another very important means of dissemination is the project website put together by the coordinator.
