Qualification of estimates for total trace elements in foodstuffs using measurement by atomic-absorption spectrophotometry

Abstract

The qualification of results for small concentrations of elements in foodstuffs implies a knowledge of the accuracy of a method when applied to foodstuffs and an assessment of the variation in results that exists in the application of that method.

An attempt is made to describe the problems inherent in obtaining such qualifications, and to suggest a standard procedure for accomplishing these aims. From data obtained for a particular method, a statistical appreciation will give confidence limits and detection limits that can be applied to subsequent results obtained, depending upon the nature of the exercise involved.