Food For Thought: SPME in Food Analysis

Researchers from Austria, Greece, and Italy conducted a study to analyze volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present in Irish and Scotch whiskys using solid-phase microextraction (SPME) Arrow with comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC×GC–MS) to examine the organoleptic characteristics that influence the taste of spirits.

Food contact materials contain low molecular weight additives and processing aids which can migrate into foods leading to trace levels of contamination. Food safety is ensured through regulations, comprising compositional controls and migration limits, which present a significant analytical challenge to the food industry to ensure compliance and demonstrate due diligence. Of the various analytical approaches, LC-MS/MS has proved to be an essential tool in monitoring migration of target compounds into foods, and more sophisticated approaches such as LC-high resolution MS (Orbitrap) are being increasingly used for untargeted analysis to monitor non-intentionally added substances. This podcast will provide an overview to this area, illustrated with various applications showing current approaches being employed.

The article discusses the application of a hybrid organic/inorganic surface technology that forms a barrier between the sample and the metal surfaces of both the HPLC system and chromatographic column. Formed by a vapor deposition of an ethylene-bridged siloxane polymer on metal substrates), this technology effectively addresses common chromatographic challenges such as analyte loss, carryover, and peak tailing due to metal-analyte interactions. It improves peak symmetry and areas, as well as reproducibility, thereby not only benefiting challenging analytes but also increasing confidence in analytical results. We demonstrate the benefits of this technology through the analysis of B-group vitamins, steviol glycosides, and dextran oligosaccharides typically found in food, beverages, and dietary supplements, showcasing its critical role in improving chromatographic performance.

Analyzing functional foods reveals numerous health benefits. These foods are rich in bioactive compounds that go beyond basic nutrition, boosting the immune system and improving overall wellness. However, analyzing these compounds can be challenging. This article discusses AI algorithms to support automated method development for liquid chromatography, simplifying the process, enhancing labor efficiency, and ensuring precise results, making it accessible to non-experts for tea analysis.

The European Commission's regulation on maximum levels for certain contaminants in food highlights the need for precise and reliable methods to quantify per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in various food matrices. This article discusses development and validation of a robust method for analyzing 21 PFAS compounds in chicken eggs using solid-phase extraction (SPE) and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS).

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