A polymeric food spoilage sensor comprises a polymer containing a polyazamacrocyclic
transition metal complex. The complex selectively binds biogenic amines, such as
cadaverine, putrescine and histamine, which are released by food spoilage microorganisms.
The polymer undergoes a detectable color change upon exposure to biogenic amine,
thus indicating that food spoilage has probably occurred. In one embodiment, the
polymer is molecularly imprinted with the biogenic amine to impart selective binding
affinity. The polymer is easily incorporated in common food containers and can
be employed in fiber optic detection devices.
