Three approaches to minimize matrix effects in residue analysis of multiclass pesticides in dried complex matrices using gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. (1st May 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rutkowska, Ewa; Łozowicka, Bożena; Kaczyński, Piotr
• Is Part Of: Food chemistry. Volume 279(2019)
• Page Start: 20
• Page End: 29
• Publication Date: 2019-05-01
• Subjects: Matrix effect -- Analytical protectants -- Pesticide residues -- Complex matrices -- Gas chromatography; Food -- Analysis -- Periodicals; Food -- Composition -- Periodicals; 664
• DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2018.11.130
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0308-8146

Abstract

Highlight: The matrix effects for 236 pesticides were studied using QuEChERS method and GC–MS/MS analysis. Dried herbs and fruit were used as model samples. Three approaches for minimizing matrix effect are evaluated. Injecting mixture of analyte protectants prior to GC–MS/MS analysis significantly minimized MEs. No matrix effect was observed for over 80% of analyzed pesticides using this method. Abstract: This paper discusses one of the major concerns in pesticide residue analysis: the matrix effect related to gas chromatography (GC), which can adversely affect quantification. In this study, a comparison of approaches for dealing with the matrix effect was investigated for 236 pesticides in complex matrices, including dried herbs ( Centaurea cyanus L., Matricaria chamomilla L., Thymus vulgaris L.) and dried fruit (currants, chokeberry), using a modified QuEChERS method and GC–MS/MS analysis. Three approaches were evaluated: (i) using matrix-matched calibration, (ii) adding a mixture of analyte protectants (APs) to every extract or (iii) injection prior to GC–MS/MS analysis. Finally, minimization of the matrix effect to the acceptable levels of −20 to 20% for over 80% of investigated pesticides was found when APs mixture was injected at the beginning of the sequence. In this approach, the matrix effects were significantly weaker for some pesticides than when matrix-matched calibration was used.