Simultaneous detection and degradation of the lipid antioxidant propyl gallate using a Fe-MOF@UiO-66 bifunctional nanozyme.

Propyl gallate (PG) is a widely used food antioxidant that prevents oxidation and extends shelf life. However, excessive intake of PG poses potential health risks, making its accurate detection and control crucial for food safety. In this study, we developed a bifunctional Fe-MOF@UiO-66 nanozyme platform capable of both detecting and degrading PG. The platform demonstrates excellent peroxidase-like activity, achieving a linear detection range of 0.27-31 μg/mL with a low detection limit of 0.13 μg/mL, alongside good stability. Additionally, the H₂O₂-catalyzed generation of free radicals achieves a high degradation rate of PG, reaching approximately 88%. This study proposes a bifunctional strategy for the detection and degradation of PG. The Fe-MOF@UiO-66 platform shows potential for food safety applications, while its powder form, H2O2 dependence, and acidic pH requirement represent current limitations. Future work could explore immobilization and pH adaptability to further enhance its applicability.