The rapid transition from traditional diagnostic systems to portable analytical devices (PADs) over the past few decades has led to significant progress in food safety, offering innovative solutions to combat the pervasive issue of food adulteration. Adulterants, encompassing chemical contaminants like melamine and pesticides and biological hazards such as Salmonella and mycotoxins, threaten public health and economic stability. In this regard, PADs have emerged as an effective real-time and on-site detection tool. By addressing the limitations of conventional laboratory methods, such as lengthy analysis times and the dependence on extensive infrastructure, PADs empower stakeholders across the food supply chain to mitigate the risks associated with foodborne illnesses and financial loss. Research efforts are directed toward improving the accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and multiplexing features of portable analytical devices (PADs) while ensuring their effective deployment in real-world applications. This initiative leverages state-of-the-art technologies, including nanomaterials, biorecognition elements with extended shelf life, and the incorporation of wearable/portable technology with artificial intelligence. The aim is to facilitate these tools’ rapid and efficient application in combating food adulteration.