Theory & Background¶
Purpose: Build foundational knowledge on spectroscopy, food applications, and analysis methods.
Audience: Users new to food spectroscopy or transitioning between application domains.
Time to read: 45–60 minutes (browse sections as needed).
Prerequisites: Basic chemistry knowledge helpful; no coding required.
Core concepts, data structures, and fundamentals that underpin FoodSpec, including spectroscopy basics and application domains.
Learning Paths¶
I'm new to spectroscopy: 1. Spectroscopy Basics — Raman, FTIR, NIR fundamentals 2. Food Spectroscopy Applications — Real-world examples 3. Chemometrics & ML Basics — Analysis methods
I have spectra; I'm building a model: 1. Workflow Design — Map your question to methods - CSV to Library — Prepare and import data - Metrics Reference — Validate your results
I'm troubleshooting results: 1. Common Problems & Solutions — Diagnose issues 2. Harmonization Theory — Multi-instrument integration 3. Reporting Guidelines — Document your workflow
Start Here¶
- Spectroscopy Basics — Vibrational spectroscopy fundamentals
- Food Spectroscopy Applications — Authentication, adulterationdetection, quality monitoring
Data & Structures¶
- Data Structures & FAIR Principles — How data is organized and managed
- Harmonization & Calibration — Multi-instrument and cross-batch harmonization
Analysis Methods¶
- Chemometrics & ML Basics — PCA, classification, cross-validation fundamentals
- Statistics for Spectroscopy — Design, hypothesis testing, interpretation
Related Sections¶
- Getting Started — Install and quickstarts
- Tutorials — Step-by-step learning
- User Guide — Feature reference
Next Steps¶
- Spectroscopy Basics — Start with fundamentals.
- Workflow Design — Apply theory to your project.
- Tutorials — Learn through hands-on examples.
Use this section to build a strong foundation before tackling advanced topics.