The Maillard reaction is a complex chemical reaction that occurs between nucleophilic groups, such as thiolates or amino groups primarily from amino acids, peptides, proteins, and carbonyl groups, particularly from reducing sugars. The pH value of the medium is a key parameter controlling the kinetics of the Maillard reaction, as it influences the concentration of nucleophilic groups. Other specific conditions of reaction medium such as temperature, reaction time (or residence time in a process), and water activity also significantly influence the Maillard reaction. Understanding the impact of these parameters is essential for optimizing the Maillard reaction to enhance sensory attributes, nutritional qualities, and product stability during the storage and distribution of the final products. The Maillard reaction is responsible for the formation of desirable sensory qualities such as flavor, aroma, color, and texture in cooked and thermally processed foods, in addition to the improvement of nutritional value and shelf life of foods. In contrast, there are limitations in its industrial applications, as it can also generate harmful compounds such as acrylamide, N(6)-carboxymethyllysine, furans, and heterocyclic amines, as well as undesired changes in the nutritional value of the food. This review provides an overview of the Maillard reaction’s mechanism, influencing parameters, pros and cons, as well as some food industrial applications.

Every human being needs around 20 essential elements to maintain proper physiological processes. However, trace elements are classified as beneficial, essential, or toxic for living organisms. Some trace elements are considered essential elements for the human body in adequate quantities (dietary reference intakes, DRIs), while others have undetermined biological functions and are considered undesirable substances or contaminants. Pollution with trace elements is becoming a great concern since they can affect biological functions or accumulate in organs, causing adverse effects and illnesses such as cancer. These pollutants are being discarded in our soils, waters, and the food supply chain due to several anthropogenic factors. This review mainly aims to provide a clear overview of the commonly used methods and techniques in the trace element analysis of food from sample preparations, namely, ashing techniques, separation/extraction methods, and analytical techniques. Ashing is the first step in trace element analysis. Dry ashing or wet digestion using strong acids at high pressure in closed vessels are used to eliminate the organic matter. Separation and pre-concentration of elements is usually needed before proceeding with the analytical techniques to eliminate the interferences and ameliorate the detection limits.