Ginger (Zingiber officinale) and its derivatives are highly valued spices but are particularly vulnerable to economically driven adulteration. This critical review compiles and evaluates analytical studies between 2005 and 2024 addressing the authentication of ginger. Using PRISMA guideline, 27 original research publications were selected from the Scopus and Web of Science databases. The results demonstrate that no single analytical approach is sufficient for comprehensive authentication; instead, an integrated, multi-analytical strategy is required. Spectroscopic techniques (FTIR, FT-NIR, and NMR) combined with chemometric tools provide swift, noninvasive methods for geographic and varietal differentiation as well as adulterant identification. Chromatographic methods (HPLC and GC-MS) offer comprehensive chemical characterization that is essential for evaluating quality and processing history. Stable isotope ratio analysis offers intrinsic, source-specific fingerprints for tracing geographical origin and verifying authenticity. DNA-based approaches provide conclusive species identification but remain limited for varietal differentiation due to high genetic conservation. Emerging technologies, including hyperspectral imaging, fluorescence lifetime imaging, and deep learning-driven computer vision, exhibit strong potential for noninvasive quality assessment. Overall, this review highlights the importance of combining complementary analytical methods to effectively tackle the complex issue of ginger fraud, therefore guaranteeing product authenticity, consumer safety, and adherence to regulations in the global market.
Fernando et al. (Mon,) studied this question.