Dual-template molecularly imprinted electrochemical sensor based on foamed iron-based MOF for simultaneous and specific detection of α-arbutin and β-arbutin in cosmetics

•Use of a foamy iron-based MOF electrochemical sensor obtained by molecular imprinting for the simultaneous specific detection of α-arbutin and β-arbutin in cosmetics.•MOF (Fe) inside the foam-like hollow is obtained by electrostatic adsorption.•A electrochemical sensor was designed using the excellent conductivity of MOF (Fe).•Concurrent and specific test of α-AR and β-AR was achieved by molecular blotting.•The sensor achieved a satisfactory detection limit of 6.667 × 10-13 mol L-1 (S/N = 3).•Simultaneous detection of α-Ar and β-Ar in whitening cosmetics has been realized.