During the last two decades analytical developments, especially in mass spectrometry, have facilitated the implementation of more efficient multi-analyte, multi-class residue methods. During this period a 10-50 fold improvement in the limits of quantification, and a 10-fold increase in the number of analytes included in a single method, have been accompanied with improvements in the precision and accuracy of measurement, reliability of operation, sophisticated automation and more efficient data processing. Modern laboratories equipped with the latest mass spectrometry techniques coupled to either gas or liquid chromatography now have the capability to detect, identify, and quantify hundreds of analytes at low ng/g concentrations in a diverse range of sample types in a single analysis. Nonetheless, regulators, food manufacturers, food retailers, and ultimately consumers demand further improvements in detection capability and analytical efficiency. The latest developments in screening methods based on high resolution mass spectrometry, together with associated developments in micro-flow devices, ion mobility, ambient ionization, non-selected fragmentation techniques, and advances in data processing software will be discussed. Looking forward, the miniaturization of instrumentation for improved portability to take the laboratory to the sample are in development. This approach may not be applicable to all samples, but should permit the on-site analysis of consignments of specific commodities suspected to pose a risk to consumer health. These developments will be discussed with real examples to demonstrate the challenges ahead and progress to date.

Analysis of pesticide residues in foods: Application of recent developments in mass spectrometry techniques and future prospects

248th National Meeting (2014)

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