A novel 3D-fluorescence sensing strategy based on HN-chitosan polymer probe for rapid identification and quantification of potential adulteration in saffron

Saffron is a candidate for various kinds of fraud to make huge profits. The present study proposed an efficient three-dimensional (3D) fluorescence sensing strategy based on hydrophilic hydrazine-naphthalimide functionalized chitosan (HN-chitosan) polymer probe for rapid identification and quantification of potential adulteration in saffron. The amino functional group in the HN-chitosan probe reacted specifically with the Oxygen-containing group of active ingredients in saffron, amplifying the signal difference between saffron and the adulterants, which was comprehensively characterized by 3D fluorescence. Four advanced chemometrics methods were applied for the classification of saffron and adulterated saffron, and good performance were obtained in both training and prediction sets. Furthermore, the PLS regression model was applied to the prediction of adulteration level in saffron and showed satisfactory accuracy. This strategy provides a new solution for rapid identification and quantification of potential adulteration in saffron, which contributes to the healthy development of its industry.