Application of Terahertz Spectroscopy and Imaging Techniques in Food Adulteration

Abstract

Terahertz (THz) waves lie between millimeter and far-infrared bands, the frequency of which ranges from 100 GHz to 10 THz. Some food materials show featured absorption for THz wave radiation, which can be utilized to characterize different food materials. Compared with other spectral analysis methods, THz spectroscopy has low photon energy and no ionizing radiation. The rapid development of ultrafast laser technology and semiconductor material has enable the further progress of THz techniques in food adulteration. In this review, the principles and applications of THz technology employed in the detection of food adulteration are discussed and the challenges of THz technology in the field of food adulteration are also summarized.