LC-GC System MOSH/MOAH

Importance of the Topic

The migration of mineral oil saturated hydrocarbons (MOSH) and mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH) from packaging materials into food is a growing concern due to potential health risks. Regulatory bodies recommend routine monitoring of these contaminants to ensure consumer safety and compliance with food quality standards.

Objectives and Study Overview

This application overview describes an LC-GC coupling system designed to quantify MOSH and MOAH in food samples with high throughput, reproducibility, and sensitivity. The system follows guidelines established by risk assessment authorities and aims to automate analysis while minimizing contamination risks.

Methodology

The method employs liquid chromatography to separate MOSH and MOAH fractions, followed by direct transfer into a gas chromatograph equipped with two flame ionization detectors (FIDs). Automated epoxidation of interfering compounds is available as an add-on module or an offline workbench to enhance MOAH specificity. Direct coupling reduces manual handling and potential cross-contamination.

Instrumental Setup

• HPLC pump with UV detector and degasser (e.g., Agilent 1260, Knauer Azura, or Shimadzu LC 20)
• Automated sample handling via CHRONECT Robotic with CTC PAL3 autosampler and CHRONOS software
• Gas chromatograph (e.g., Agilent 7890B or Shimadzu GC 2010) fitted with dual FIDs for parallel MOSH and MOAH detection
• CHRONECT LC-GC interface for direct coupling

Main Results and Discussion

HPLC UV detection provides clear fractionation of hydrocarbons across the C16–C25 boiling range. LC-GC injections of BfR standard solutions demonstrate distinct MOSH and MOAH signals with a detection limit around 0.6 mg/kg and excellent linearity. Analysis of a BAM lubricating oil standard further confirms the system’s capability to resolve complex hydrocarbon profiles and maintain reproducible retention times.

Benefits and Practical Applications of the Method

• High sample throughput through parallel MOSH/MOAH measurement
• Robust automation minimizes contamination and handling errors
• Reproducible split/splitless-comparable injection performance
• Sensitivity suitable for regulatory compliance screening
• Modular design allows expansion to additional applications or matrices

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Advances may include integration with mass spectrometry for structural confirmation, real-time data analysis via AI-driven software, and extended epoxidation automation to streamline MOAH determination. Broader application in environmental samples and cosmetic products is anticipated.

Conclusion

The described LC-GC MOSH/MOAH system delivers a comprehensive solution for routine food safety monitoring, combining high throughput, sensitivity, and automation to address regulatory requirements efficiently.