Importance of advanced analytical techniques and methods for food quality control and pollution analysis for more sustainable future in the least developed countries

Chemistry education plays a central role in solving the world's pressing societal issues by equipping and inspiring chemists. However, chemistry education and research in the least developed countries (LDCs) is challenging due to a lack of physical infrastructure and human resources. Among a range of issues and challenges, food and herbal adulteration, microplastics pollution, and chemical hazards are more common in the LDCs, and these issues would impede the achievement of the United Nations sustainable development goals (SDGs). These societal issues are frequently highlighted in the academia and social media of the LDCs, and we believe that at least some aspects of these issues could be solved by advancement in chemistry education and research. However, the current chemistry education and research efforts are inadequate to address these societal issues in these countries. In this article, we have summarized the present scenario and offered examples where developments in chemistry education, particularly advancement in analytical techniques and methods, will provide technological solutions to these issues. Our analysis revealed that sophisticated analytical laboratories are unavailable or unaffordable in the LDCs. The governments of these countries are facing extreme challenges in their pursuit of sustainable development primarily due to a lack of financial resources and shortage of skilled personnel. Revised chemistry curricula and sophisticated analytical testing facilities are urgently required in higher education institutions (HEIs) in the LDCs in helping society achieve the SDGs. A concerted effort between policymakers, chemical societies, funding agencies, chemists, and industries is required to advance chemistry education.