WORK PERFORMED:
14 ESRs have been recruited by the project (3 of them replacing resigned ESRs), covering 11 individual research projects that were organized in a matrix structure with 5 different research work packages (WPs). In the research WPs, advanced biorecognition, optical and electrochemical detection, integrated sample preparation, data handling, and applicability testing were studied. In addition, separate WPs were dedicated to training, dissemination, management and ethical aspects.
MAIN RESULTS:
-Advanced biorecognition through directed immobilization of conjugates, antibodies, aptamers and bioactive enzymes for antibiotics, aflatoxins and pesticides.
-Advanced optical detection through nanostars for label-free localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) detection and nanozymes; 3D-printed imaging SPR; and carbon nanoparticles for labelled detection, yielding an ultrafast allergen strip test (visual result <30 s).
-Advanced sample handling through design and prototyping of 3D-printed unibody lab-on-chip microfluidic devices.
-Advanced image data handling solutions and secure cloud interfaces for smartphone reading of strip tests.
-Applicability for screening of allergens in cookies, marine toxins in shellfish, antibiotics and pathogens in milk and cheese, pesticides in lettuce, strawberry, cereals and fruit juices, and mycotoxins in corn.
-The logistics gap between future massive on-site testing using smartphone assays and regulatory analysis in official laboratories was filled by the development of identification test strips (ID-LFIA), acting as an interface between on-site assays and mass spectrometric confirmation.
-All ESRs participated in scientific and transferable skills courses and acquired at least 20 ECTS each (pro rata for ESRs having shorter contract durations). All ESRs enrolled in a PhD program graduated or are on track for achieving their doctorate in 2021-2022. All graduated or resigned ESRs obtained a job position in the academic or industry sector.
EXPLOITATION:
In line with expectations from projects in the Horizon 2020 excellent science pillar, the level of the prototype developments in FoodSmartphone ended typically at TRL 3-4 and exploitation has been mainly scientific. As a result, the know-how and outcome of the project can and will be exploited as solid starting points for future, more applied, follow-up projects and initiatives at the beneficiaries and beyond.
DISSEMINATION:
The project has been widely disseminated to scientists, EC regulators, reference laboratories, food industry, diagnostics companies, general public, and next generations. ESRs and supervisors presented the project outcome at 49 (inter)national scientific events via 74 lectures and 24 posters. In addition, 7 scientific opinion papers, 14 papers on the project in magazines/local newspapers, 4 TV or radio interviews, 5 interview features about the project in food industry magazines, 26+9 peer reviewed scientific papers, 25 YouTube videos, 8 e-Newsletters, 157 ESR blogs and 404 tweets were published. Moreover, the project results were presented on 5 open days. Next-generation potentials were engaged by 6 ESRs via presentations at their previous primary or secondary school.
