Quantitative Analysis of Furan and Alkylfuran in Processed Food Using a Triple Quadrupole GC-MS System and an SPME Arrow

Importance of Topic

The presence of furan and its alkylated derivatives in processed foods has become a significant public health concern. These volatile organic compounds contribute to aroma but may pose toxicological risks even at trace levels. Regulatory bodies such as the European Union recommend regular monitoring to safeguard consumer safety.

Objectives and Study Overview

This application describes a workflow for quantitative analysis of furan and six alkylfurans in food matrices using a solid‐phase microextraction (SPME) Arrow combined with a triple quadrupole GC‐MS system. The goals were to achieve low detection limits, high repeatability, and robustness against complex food matrices.

Used Instrumentation

• AOC‐6000 Plus multifunctional autosampler capable of headspace, liquid, and SPME injections
• SPME Arrow fiber (Carbon WR/PDMS, 120 µm) for enhanced extraction sensitivity and durability
• GCMS‐TQ8040 NX triple quadrupole gas chromatograph–mass spectrometer operating in multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode

Methodology

Standard solutions of furan and six alkylfurans were prepared in methanol and diluted into aqueous matrices containing sodium chloride. Commercial baby food served as the test sample. Headspace SPME Arrow extraction was performed at 50 °C with agitation, followed by thermal desorption in split injection mode (split ratio 20). Chromatographic separation utilized an SH‐I‐5 MS column with a temperature gradient from 40 °C to 220 °C. The mass spectrometer operated in MRM mode, monitoring two transitions per analyte for optimal selectivity.

Main Results and Discussion

- The method achieved a quantification range of 0.01–10 ng/mL with calibration curves weighted by 1/C and correlation coefficients (R) above 0.996.
- At the lowest standard level (0.01 ng/mL), six replicate analyses yielded relative standard deviations below 10%, demonstrating excellent repeatability.
- Analysis of baby food by external calibration and standard addition revealed minor matrix effects, suggesting the benefit of isotopically labeled internal standards for further accuracy.
- Comparison of single ion monitoring (SIM) and MRM modes confirmed that MRM provides superior selectivity and reduced interference from coextractives in complex matrices.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• High sensitivity and low detection limits enable trace‐level monitoring of health‐relevant analytes.
• Automated sample handling with the AOC‐6000 Plus increases throughput and reproducibility.
• MRM mode ensures reliable quantification in challenging food matrices, supporting quality control and regulatory compliance.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Advances in fiber coatings and autosampler automation will drive further improvements in sensitivity and robustness. Coupling SPME Arrow with high‐resolution mass spectrometry and incorporating deuterated internal standards are expected to enhance quantitative accuracy. Integration into online workflows and expansion to other volatile contaminants will broaden the method’s applicability in food safety and environmental monitoring.

Conclusion

The combination of SPME Arrow extraction and triple quadrupole GC‐MS in MRM mode provides a sensitive, reproducible, and selective platform for quantifying furan compounds in processed foods. This workflow supports fast, automated analysis and meets stringent regulatory requirements.

References

1. Commission Recommendation (EU) 2022/495 of 25 March 2022 on monitoring the presence of furan and alkylfurans in food.