Carbon Quantum Dots in Food and Environmental Safety: Advances in Sensing Technologies for Contaminant Detections

ABSTRACT Recent developments in carbon quantum dot (CQD)‐based detection technologies, with a focus on applications in food and environmental safety. CQDs, an emerging nanomaterial, are widely used to detect pollutants such as heavy metals, pesticides, microbial contaminants, and organic pollutants. The tremendous optical properties, biocompatibility, low toxicity, and tunable surface functionality of CQDs make them suitable for various real‐time monitoring. It also discusses the role of CQD‐based sensors in detecting contaminants in complex matrices, such as food and water, as well as in detecting contaminants using fluorescence, electrochemical, and upconversion emission methods. These sensors can address current field tasks, including expanding the detection field, improving cost‐effectiveness, and increasing accuracy. In addition, the synthesis of novel materials and the development of advanced, targeted sensors by blending CQDs with other nanomaterials are expected to enhance food safety control and risk assessment for environmental protection.