Real-time detection of potato spoilage by gas sensor array coupled with microbiological analysis
Tangirbergen A. Tleubekova A. Yergaliuly G. Kurmanbayeva A. Soltabayev B. Soltabayeva A.
1 January 2026Academic Press
LWT
2026#239
Vegetable spoilage is a major contributor to global food loss, with potatoes being especially vulnerable due to their high nutrient content and microbial susceptibility. This study introduces a real-time, non-invasive method for detecting potato spoilage using a metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) gas sensor array, focusing on the MQ-3 sensor. An Arduino-based system continuously monitored gas emissions under ambient, high-humidity, and UV-treated storage conditions. Sensor data were validated against microbiological analysis, including E. coli , coliforms , total aerobic counts, yeast, and mold. A strong correlation was observed between sensor resistance decline and microbial growth, with MQ-3 showing high sensitivity to volatile organic compounds (VOCs). UV pretreatment delayed microbial activity and stabilized sensor signals. Comparative analysis revealed that only MQ-3 and MQ-135 were effective for early potato spoilage detection. These findings demonstrate the potential of low-cost MOS sensors as practical alternatives to traditional methods, enhancing food safety and reducing post-harvest losses. Copyright
Food storage , Fungal infection , Microbial contamination , Non-invasive detection , Potato spoilage , Volatile organic compounds
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National Laboratory Astana, Nazarbayev University, Astana, Kazakhstan
School of Science and Humanities, Nazarbayev University, Astana, Kazakhstan
L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, Astana, Kazakhstan
Institute of New Materials and Technologies, Nazarbayev University, Astana, Kazakhstan
National Laboratory Astana
School of Science and Humanities
L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University
Institute of New Materials and Technologies
10 лет помогаем публиковать статьи Международный издатель
Книга Публикация научной статьи Волощук 2026 Book Publication of a scientific article 2026