New Method Improved Detection of Dye in Chili Powder
Researchers developed a faster technique to identify unauthorized Sudan I dye in food products using spectroscopy.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Nutrition
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Scientists have created a new analytical method that significantly accelerates the detection of the illegal food additive Sudan I in chili powder. By combining advanced molecular extraction with machine learning, the process identifies this potential health risk in just 90 minutes.
Why it matters
Sudan I is an unauthorized dye that can pose safety concerns, and this new approach provides a more reliable way to screen food products for its presence. The method helps ensure the integrity of the food supply by reducing variability in testing that could otherwise lead to undetected contaminants.
In a laboratory validation study, researchers tested the method on spiked chili powder samples, achieving recovery rates between 92.0% and 97.0%. The process utilizes a Random Forest regression algorithm with an R value of 0.938 to standardize results against internal FeO reference bands.
The details
The system utilizes magnetic molecularly imprinted solid-phase extraction nanoparticles, which specifically bind to Sudan I. These particles are mixed with potassium bromide for Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, where FeO acts as both an adsorbent carrier and an internal standard. By normalizing peak areas of the dye against FeO bands, the algorithm accounts for inconsistencies in sample mass and preparation that often complicate testing.
Timeline
September 19, 2026: The research results were officially published.
Health Landscape
This development addresses the ongoing challenge of detecting adulterants like Sudan I, which remain prohibited in international food production. It marks a shift from slower, laboratory-intensive testing toward more automated, algorithm-driven screening methods for global food safety.
While this innovation is primarily for food safety regulators and laboratories, it reinforces the value of purchasing food products from trusted, audited suppliers. If you have specific concerns about food quality, discuss label transparency and certification standards with your food provider.
The takeaway
This new method streamlines the detection of unauthorized chemical dyes in food using machine learning to increase testing accuracy. Consumers concerned about food safety can prioritize products that carry reputable third-party quality certifications.
Further reading
For more on food safety and additives, visit the Nutrition section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Nature.
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