Optimization of a multiple headspace SPME-GC-ECD-ICP-MS coupling for halogenated solvent residues in edible oils

Abstract

Halogenated solvent residues can be found in edible oils as a consequence of the extraction procedure. The great influence of these residues in the quality of edible oils as well as in human health has motivated more restrictive regulations by the European Union. Therefore, the development of new analytical methods for a sensitive and precise determination is required. In the present work, a new method based on multiple headspace solid-phase microextraction (MHS-SPME) followed by the on-line coupling of gas chromatography with electron capture detection (GC-ECD) and with an ICP-MS has been optimised for the determination of halogenated solvent residues in edible oils. This approach allows the determination of analytes under the established limits due to the high sensitivity of the ECD detector as well as their unequivocal identification by the element-specific ICP-MS detector. Finally, the use of the MHS-SPME avoids sample matrix which constituted the most frequent problem when oil samples are analyzed.