AUTHOR=Song Xiaodong , Shen Song , Dong Guanjun , Ding Haohan , Xie Zhenqi , Wang Long , Cheng Wenxu 

TITLE=A comprehensive review of direct, indirect, and AI-based detection methods for milk powder

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems

VOLUME=Volume 9 - 2025

YEAR=2025

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/sustainable-food-systems/articles/10.3389/fsufs.2025.1571317

DOI=10.3389/fsufs.2025.1571317

ISSN=2571-581X

ABSTRACT=This paper summarizes the existing methods of milk powder detection, and classifies them according to the direct and indirect characteristics of the detection methods, mainly introducing the detection methods of milk powder nutrition, recombination characteristics, transportation convenience and sensory characteristics. The direct detection methods of milk powder include traditional chemical analysis and modern instrument technology, most of which are based on the International Dairy Federation (IDF) standard method and powder detection instrument method. These methods can give accurate quantitative results, but often require complex sample preparation processes and long experimental operations. The indirect detection methods of milk powder mainly use microscopic imaging, spectral analysis, electronic nose system, environmental parameter monitoring and other technologies to establish complex mathematical models and provide a fast and non-destructive alternative. In addition, this paper summarizes the development of milk powder quality detection in three main directions: first, the traditional chemical detection method to environmental protection indirect analysis technology; Secondly, the development direction of multidisciplinary comprehensive evaluation; Finally, there is the wider use of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation. Future developments in the field are expected to focus on innovation across disciplines, combining technologies such as spectroscopy, high-definition microscopic imaging, digital twin with modern technologies such as AI and the Internet of Things. These advances are expected to improve the efficiency, sustainability and intelligence of milk powder quality assessment systems, while ensuring their accuracy and reliability.