Abstract: “Lab on paper” is a paper-based microanalytical system with unique advantages such as high sensitivity, low cost, portability, and mass production, which breaks through the limitations of traditional detection technologies and shows great potential in the field of rapid on-site food detection. In this paper, the typical “labs on paper”, including chromatographic paper, chemical test chip, lateral flow assay (LFA), microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs), and synthetic biological paper, are systematically reviewed. Special emphasis is put on the application of “lab on paper” in the field of food detection. Finally, the advantages, challenges, and future prospects of paper-based analytic methods are discussed, which may provide theoretical support for better application of “lab on paper” in the field of food detection.

Key words: lab on paper; paper-based analytical devices; food detection