Non-destructive identification of fake eggs using fluorescence spectral analysis and hyperspectral imaging

Abstract

In this study, fluorescence hyperspectral imaging (FHSI) was used for the rapid, nondestructive detection of fake, manmade eggs from real eggs. To identify fake eggs, protoporphyrin IX (PpIX)–a natural pigment present in real eggshells–was utilized as the main indicator due to its strong fluorescence emission effect. The fluorescence images of real and fake eggs were acquired using a line-scan-based FHSI system, and their fluorescence features were analyzed based on spectroscopic techniques. To improve the detection performance and accuracy, an optimal waveband combination was investigated with analysis of variance (ANOVA), and its fluorescence ratio images (588/645 nm) were created for visualization of the real eggs between two different egg groups. In addition, real and fake eggs were scanned using a one-waveband (645 nm) handheld fluorescence imager that can perform real-time scanning for on-site applications. Then, the results of the two methods were compared with one another. The outcome clearly shows that the newly developed FHSI system and the fluorescence handheld imager were both able to distinguish real eggs from fake eggs. Consequently, FHSI showed a better performance (clearer images) compared to the fluorescence handheld imager, and the outcome provided valuable information about the feasibility of using FHSI imaging with ANOVA for the discrimination of real and fake eggs.