Analysis of Dioxins in Foods and Feeds

Significance of the Topic

The accurate detection and quantification of dioxins in food and feed are critical due to their high toxicity, persistence in the environment, and potential to accumulate in the food chain. Regulatory bodies worldwide set stringent limits for these compounds, requiring sensitive and reliable analytical methods to ensure consumer safety and regulatory compliance.

Objectives and Study Overview

This study demonstrates a validated workflow for trace-level determination of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and dibenzofurans (PCDFs) in complex food and feed matrices. The aim is to illustrate method performance—sensitivity, selectivity, and reproducibility—using a GC-MS/MS system compliant with EU regulations.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Sample preparation involves accelerated solvent extraction followed by multilayer cleanup using GO-xHT cartridges to remove lipids and interferences. Analysis is carried out on a Shimadzu GCMS-TQ 8050 triple quadrupole mass spectrometer coupled with an AOC-20i/s autosampler. A 60 m SH-I-5Sil MS column (0.25 mm I.D., 0.25 µm) ensures high-resolution separation of target congeners. MS/MS transitions follow the EU method package for dioxins in foods.

Main Results and Discussion

Chromatograms of representative congeners at 0.025 pg/µL demonstrate clear baseline separation and high signal-to-noise ratios. Method detection limits for the 17 regulated PCDD/PCDF congeners are below 0.1 pg injected, meeting or exceeding regulatory requirements. Reproducibility trials show relative standard deviations below 15% across multiple matrices. Instrumental parameters such as splitless injection, optimized temperature programming, and BEIS ion source contribute to robust performance.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• High sensitivity and selectivity allow compliance with low regulatory limits.
• Automated sample handling and cleanup streamline laboratory throughput.
• Method package compatibility simplifies method implementation and validation.
• Applicable to a wide range of food and feed matrices including oils, grains, and animal tissues.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Advancements in flow-controlled high-pressure injection and fast GC gradients may shorten analysis time without compromising resolution. Coupling with high-resolution mass spectrometry could further enhance detection of emerging chlorinated pollutants. Integration of AI-driven data processing may accelerate interpretation and trend analysis in routine monitoring.

Conclusion

The described GC-MS/MS workflow provides a robust, sensitive, and regulatory-compliant approach for the analysis of dioxins in food and feed. Its automation, reproducibility, and low detection limits make it well suited for high-throughput laboratories aiming to safeguard public health.

Reference

Shimadzu Corporation. Application News M287: Analysis of Dioxins in Foods and Feeds by GC-MS/MS Using SH-I-5Sil MS Column. First Edition, September 2022.