Combining microfluidic paper-based platform and metal–organic frameworks in a single device for phenolic content assessment in fruits

A microfluidic paper-based device (µPAD) has been combined with metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) for total phenolic compounds (TPC) quantification in fruit samples for the first time. The performance of the µPAD, based upon the vertical flow approach, was enhanced in order to determine the TPC content with high accuracy in fruit samples. The method was based on the traditional Folin-Ciocalteu Index using gallic acid or oenotannin as reference phenolic compounds. This novel design and construction of the device are in agreement with the principles of Green Chemistry avoiding wax technology (lower toxicity). The analytical parameters that affect the colorimetric method (using digital imaging of the colored zone) performance were optimized including design, sample volume, and MOF amount. Then, the analytical features of the developed method were investigated such as dynamic range (1.6–30 mg L(−1)), limit of detection (0.5 mg L(−1)), and precision (RSD < 9%). Besides, the in-field analysis is achievable with a color stability up to 6 h after the loading process of the sample and storage stability for at least 15 days without performance losses (under vacuum at − 20 °C). Furthermore, the MOF ZIF-8@paper was characterized to study its composition and the successful combination. The feasibility of the proposed method was demonstrated by determining the TPC in 5 fruit samples using oenotannin as reference solute. The accuracy was validated by comparison of the data with the results obtained with the recommended protocol proposed by the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV). GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT: [Image: see text] SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00604-023-05702-5.