@article {QIU2026150511,
	title = {Online monitoring of Maillard reaction dynamics using a custom reaction-transfer device and direct analysis in real time mass spectrometry},
	journal = {Food Chemistry},
	volume = {525},
	year = {2026},
	month = {07/2026},
	pages = {150511},
	abstract = {<p>Controlling the Maillard reaction (MR) is critical for producing food flavor and color, yet real-time monitoring of its dynamics remains challenging. We developed an online monitoring system by integrating a custom reaction-transfer device with a Direct Analysis in Real Time (DART) ion source and high-resolution mass spectrometry. The system continuously transfers volatile MR products from the reaction headspace via a heated transfer line, enabling real-time, high-resolution analysis. The system successfully captured time-resolved molecular profiles, from early-stage sugar degradation intermediates to late-stage formation of nitrogen-containing heterocycles. Substrate-dependent kinetics and products were clearly differentiated. Elemental composition analysis via Van Krevelen plots further revealed distinct reaction pathways. The method was applied to monitor 12 MR model reactions and 5 real food samples, and correlation analysis linked complex food flavors to specific precursor reaction systems. Method validation confirmed the method\&$\#$39;s precision and robustness, establishing a simple and informative platform for online MR monitoring.</p>},
	keywords = {DART-MS, Food flavor, Maillard reaction, Reaction dynamics, Real-time analysis},
	issn = {0308-8146},
	doi = {https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2026.150511},
	url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0308814626026713},
	author = {Zhichen Qiu and Liping Xu and Xin Geng and Hongli Li and David D. Y. Chen}
}
