Replacement of conventional reference electrode with platinum electrode for electronic tongue based analysis of dairy products

This work demonstrates the utility of platinum metal electrode as replacement for conventional Ag/AgCl reference electrode for voltammetric electronic tongue based analysis of edible dairy products. It overcomes the limitations of conventional silver-based reference electrode that presents a potential health hazard when employed for analysis of edible dairy products. Various dairy products like toned milk, Lassi and skimmed milk powder were tested using a cluster of platinum, gold and rhodium working electrodes. Responses of electrode cluster were captured using cyclic voltammetry. Comparative investigations were carried out between responses with platinum reference electrode and Ag/AgCl reference electrode. Repeatability and reproducibility of results have been examined. Our results suggest that platinum metal reference electrode can be reliably used for voltammetric electronic tongue based analysis of dairy products. Further this shall pave way for commercial development of electronic tongue technology in food sector adhering to hygienic and food safety regulations.