A Hybrid Zr-MOF/CNT/Nanocellulose Electrochemical Sensor for Dual Detection of Furazolidone and Chloramphenicol in Food Samples

The misuse of antibiotics such as furazolidone (FZ) and chloramphenicol (CP) in the food industry poses serious health risks, highlighting the need for rapid and sensitive detection strategies. Here, we report a hybrid nanocomposite electrode composed of zirconium-based metal–organic frameworks (Zr-MOFs), carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and nanocellulose for the simultaneous electrochemical detection of CP and FZ. In this design, Zr-MOF provides abundant electroactive sites, CNTs enhance conductivity, and nanocellulose improves analyte adsorption through its rich surface functionalities. The synergistic integration enables independent and distinguishable redox responses for CP and FZ, allowing reliable dual-analyte monitoring. Optimization of the composite via component ratio and sonication temperature resulted in superior electrocatalytic performance. The Zr-MOF/CNT/nanocellulose sensor achieved ultralow detection limits of 3.4 nM (CP) and 8.2 nM (FZ), with excellent sensitivity, reproducibility, and stability. Furthermore, successful recovery studies in real food matrices, including milk, honey, and pharmaceutical tablets, demonstrates its practical applicability. This work introduces a multifunctional hybrid sensing platform that advances electrochemical monitoring of antibiotic residues for food safety applications.