Analysis of Ethylene Chlorohydrin (2-chloroethanol) in Bamboo Setae

Importance of the Topic

Ethylene chlorohydrin is a toxic by product of ethylene oxide fumigation and poses carcinogenic risks if residual levels remain in food contact materials such as bamboo skewers.

Objectives and Study Overview

The aim of the study was to develop and validate a gas chromatography mass spectrometry method to detect and quantify 2-chloroethanol in bamboo skewer samples to ensure safety and regulatory compliance.

Methodology and Instrumentation Used

Sample preparation followed a preliminary protocol involving mechanical cutting of skewers and extraction with 5 mL ethanol in a hot water bath at 60 °C for 1 hour.
The GC MS analysis was performed under the following conditions:

• System GC MS with electron ionization scan mode m/z 30 to 450
• Column InertCap FFAP 0.25 mm ID x 30 m df 0.25 μm
• Oven program 60 °C for 1 min then 5 °C/min to 220 °C held for 7 min
• Carrier gas helium at 60 kPa
• Injection splitless for 1 min with vent flow 35 mL/min at 200 °C
• Interface temperature 220 °C
• Sample volume 1 μL

Calibration standards were prepared in ethanol at concentrations starting at 0.1 μg/mL, with linearity assessed by the ECH ion at m/z 31.

Main Results and Discussion

Calibration showed excellent linearity with R2 of 0.9996 at the 0.1 μg/mL level. Repeated injections yielded an average peak area of 24752 with a relative standard deviation of 2.62% demonstrating good precision.
Analysis of unspiked bamboo skewer extracts indicated no detectable ECH, whereas spiked samples at 1 μg/mL produced clear chromatographic peaks confirming method sensitivity and matrix compatibility.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• High sensitivity and specificity for ECH detection
• Robust reproducibility with low RSD values
• Simple sample preparation suitable for routine quality control
• Applicable to food contact materials to ensure consumer safety

Future Trends and Potential Applications

• Integration of isotope labelled internal standards for improved accuracy
• Expansion to multi residue analysis of fumigant by products in various matrices
• Automation of sample preparation using solid phase extraction methods
• Implementation of tandem mass spectrometry for lower detection limits

Conclusion

The validated GC MS protocol provides a reliable approach for monitoring residual ethylene chlorohydrin in bamboo skewers, supporting regulatory compliance and safeguarding consumer health.

References

• GL Sciences Inc Technical Note GT048 Analysis of Ethylene Chlorohydrin in Bamboo Setae