EU Regulation 396/2005: Pesticide Residue Testing and the Critical Role of QuEChERS Evaporation in Food Safety

<p><strong>Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezGCMS Library in the week of 4th May 2026? Check out new documents from the field of the gas phase, especially GC and GC/MS techniques!</strong></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-size:20px;">👉 </span><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library"><span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>SEARCH THE LARGEST REPOSITORY OF DOCUMENTS ABOUT GCMS AND RELATED TECHNIQUES</strong></span></a></p></blockquote><blockquote><p><strong>👉 Need info about different analytical techniques?</strong> Peek into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library"><strong>LabRulezLCMS</strong></a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library"><strong>LabRulezICPMS</strong></a> libraries.</p></blockquote><p>This week we bring you application note by<strong> Shimadzu, </strong>presentation by <strong>MDCW / JEOL</strong> and technical note by <strong>Thermo Fisher Scientific!</strong></p><h3><strong>1. MDCW / JEOL: Flow-Modulated GCxGC-QMS Analysis Without Splitting Off the GC Flow</strong></h3><ul><li>Presentation</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/O_16_Jensen_11e29d5022.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><section><div><div><div><div><div><div><p>This presentation by Kirk Jensen (JEOL USA) explores the feasibility of performing <strong>flow-modulated comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC×GC) coupled with quadrupole mass spectrometry (QMS)</strong> without splitting the GC flow, which is traditionally required to protect MS systems from high carrier gas flows. The core concept builds on GC×GC, where compounds are separated using a primary and secondary column connected via a modulator, significantly increasing separation power compared to one-dimensional GC. The presentation contrasts <strong>thermal modulation</strong> (offering sharper peaks and higher theoretical sensitivity but requiring cryogenic cooling) with <strong>flow modulation</strong>, which avoids cryogens, handles volatile analytes well, and is more flexible, but typically demands higher gas flows that standard MS systems cannot tolerate .</p><p>To address this limitation, the study utilizes the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=24&amp;search=JMS-Q1600GC"><strong>JEOL JMS-Q1600GC</strong></a><strong> UltraQuad quadrupole GC-MS system</strong>, which can accept unusually high carrier gas flows (up to ~20 mL/min), enabling direct coupling with a <strong>SepSolve INSIGHT flow modulator</strong> without splitting the effluent . The analytical setup includes dual GC columns (e.g., Zebron ZB-5MSplus for the first dimension and BPX50 for the second), high secondary flow rates (~25 mL/min), and electron ionization (EI) MS detection. Additional system components include optional FID detection, bleed line control, and ChromeSpace software for data processing . This configuration allows full analyte transfer into the MS, eliminating the need for flow splitting and potentially improving detection efficiency.</p><p>Experimental results demonstrate the applicability of this approach to complex mixtures, including a <strong>pesticide mixture containing over 200 compounds</strong> and real-world samples such as perfumes and fuels. The GC×GC-MS system produced detailed two-dimensional chromatograms with high spectral quality, enabling the correct identification of approximately 120 compounds despite relatively moderate spectral match factors . Comparisons at different flow rates (e.g., 25 vs. 50 mL/min) showed that spectral integrity and compound identification remain robust, indicating that higher flow operation does not significantly compromise MS performance.</p><p>In conclusion, the work demonstrates that <strong>flow-modulated GC×GC-QMS without flow splitting is feasible</strong>, provided that the MS system can tolerate high carrier gas flows. While further optimization is needed (e.g., column selection, inlet pressure, and separation conditions), the approach offers a practical alternative to thermal modulation by eliminating cryogens and simplifying operation. Future work will focus on improving sensitivity, optimizing separations, and exploring alternative carrier gases such as hydrogen to reduce costs and expand applicability</p></div></div></div></div></div></div></section><h3><strong>2. Shimadzu: Detailed Hydrocarbon Analysis by Nexis GC-2030 Using ASTM D6730</strong></h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_00863_en_eb633bc741.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><h5><strong>User Benefits</strong></h5><ul><li>Detailed compositional analysis of gasoline in accordance with ASTM D6730 is feasible using the Nexis GC-2030.&nbsp;</li><li>By employing PONAsolution, a PONA/DHA analysis software, laborious identification tasks can be reduced, and quantitation calculations and report generation can be performed automatically.</li></ul><p>ASTM D6730 specifies the analysis of hydrocarbons in gasoline and oxygenates such as ethanol, methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE), and ethyl tert-butyl ether (ETBE) over a boiling point range up to 225 ̊C. Identification and quantification of individual compounds in gasoline are critically important for refinery process control and product quality assurance. In this application news, we report compositional analysis of gasoline conforming to ASTM D6730 using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=Nexis+GC-2030"><strong>Nexis GC-2030 gas chromatograph</strong></a>. Gasoline typically comprises over 100 hydrocarbons, making identification tasks highly complex; however, PONAsolution, a PONA/DHA analysissoftware,simplifies this process.</p><h4><strong>PONAsolution</strong></h4><p>PONAsolution Ver.6 provides retention index libraries for each relevant standard (ASTM D6730, D6729, D5134, D6733). Identification of n-alkanes automatically corrects the retention times of the remaining several hundred components, thus streamlining the identification process. When only a specific retention region requires adjustment, the two-point identification function is useful (Fig. 1). In the two-point identification procedure, reference and sample chromatograms are compared while assigning corresponding peaks. First, click on an identified component mark in the reference data (Fig. 1, a), then click the matching sample peak (Fig. 1, b). Repeat this for a second pair of peaks. The retention times of components between these two anchor points are then automatically corrected.</p><h4><strong>Conclusion</strong></h4><p>Compositional analysis of gasoline in accordance with ASTM D6730 was performed. The combination of SH PONA Tuning Column and SH-1 PONA main column enabled separation of compounds with closely spaced retention times. Moreover, use of PONAsolution software greatly simplifies complex identification tasks.</p><h3><strong>3. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Fiber optic probes add flexibility to Raman chemical analysis</strong></h3><ul><li>Technical note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/drx3_flex_tech_note_tn54708_bebb56b870.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Raman Spectroscopy are non-destructive analytical techniques that rely on the interaction of electromagnetic radiation with molecular vibrations to provide information about the chemical composition and structure of a sample. Despite their similarities, there are some distinct differences between the two techniques. In principle, FTIR is based on the absorption of infrared radiation by molecules and measures changes in dipole moment during molecular vibrations. Raman spectroscopy, on the other hand, is based on the inelastic scattering of monochromatic light and measures changes in polarizability during molecular vibrations.&nbsp;</p><p>When applied to bulk chemical analysis, both FTIR and Raman spectroscopy can be used to analyze solids, liquids, and gases, but the nature of Raman spectroscopy lends some unique sampling advantages. Additionally, Raman often requires little to no sample preparation. Presented herein are application examples that highlight some of the sampling advantages of Raman spectroscopy. All the spectral data in this technical note were collected using a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/2238"><strong>Thermo Scientific™ DXR3 Flex Raman Spectrometer</strong></a> equipped with a fiber optic probe. (Fiber optics are readily available for Raman spectroscopy because of the use of visible and NIR light and do not require the exotic materials associated with FTIR fiber optics.) Preliminary tests for all samples were carried out using both 532 nm and 785 nm excitations, and it was determined that the 785 nm laser set gave an overall better balance between fluorescence and Raman scattering efficiency.</p><h4><strong>Summary&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>In this technical note, the analyses of a variety of samples by Raman spectroscopy are demonstrated. All samples were analyzed without sample preparation.&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Precise and localized analysis at the focal point of the Raman-exciting laser allows sampling through glass bottles, blister packaging and plastic containers, which eliminates possible cross contamination and analyst exposure to hazardous materials. The contributions from the packaging and containers depend on the type of container material, the container thickness, and the materials’ chemical compositional complexity, but these contributions can be readily subtracted out when needed.&nbsp;</li><li>Water is a weak Raman scatterer. Raman therefore has reduced water sensitivity, making it a preferred technique for aqueous solution analysis over FTIR. As demonstrated in the analysis of an energy drink, the Raman bands from water can be subtracted from the spectrum of the aqueous solution, leading to the identification of the components of the solution.&nbsp;</li><li>Raman spectroscopy is well suited for the analysis of inorganic materials, especially in identifying the crystal phases and polymorphs, as demonstrated by the analyses of minerals and pigments in a painting.&nbsp;</li><li>Fiber optic probes provide flexibility and ease of maneuverability. This is particularly advantageous when analyzing samples that are difficult to access or manipulate, such as large containers, geological samples and paintings</li></ul><p>The DXR3 Flex has multiple sampling options available. A properly configured fiber-optic probe is arguably the most versatile accessory for the analysis of bulk solids and liquids. The advantages, both from those inherent to Raman spectroscopy and those resulting from the use of fiber optic probe, provide opportunities for a wide variety of different applications when using the DXR3 Flex Raman Spectrometer.</p>

News from LabRulezGCMS Library - Week 19, 2026

<p><strong>🎤Francis Femi Oloy</strong></p><p><strong>In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, David speaks with Francis Femi Oloy about using chromatography to uncover hidden pollutants in real-world water systems.</strong></p><p>Femi’s team analyzed polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in six major rivers in southwestern Nigeria — compounds that were banned decades ago but still persist in the environment. Using a workflow that many analytical labs will recognize — liquid–liquid extraction, cleanup, rotary evaporation, nitrogen blowdown, and GC-ECD detection — they quantified 25 PCB congeners at trace levels and linked the results to ecological and human health risk.</p><h4><strong>In this conversation, we cover:</strong></h4><ul><li>Why legacy pollutants like PCBs still show up today</li><li>Choosing GC-ECD vs LC-MS for halogenated compounds</li><li>Liquid–liquid extraction and matrix cleanup strategies</li><li>Why sample concentration is critical for dilute environmental samples</li><li>How rotovap + nitrogen blowdown work together without losing volatile analytes</li><li>Seasonal trends (why wet season levels were higher)</li><li>Translating concentration data into meaningful risk assessments</li></ul><h3><strong>Video Transcription</strong></h3><section><div><div><div><div><div><div><p><strong>Persistent organic pollutants</strong> such as polychlorinated biphenyls (<strong>PCBs</strong>) remain a significant environmental concern despite decades of regulatory restrictions. In this interview, Francais Femi Oloy discusses the environmental and analytical challenges associated with monitoring PCB contamination in rivers of southwestern Nigeria, a rapidly industrializing region where urban growth, industrial activity, agriculture, and dense populations intersect with extensive aquatic systems.</p><p>Oloy explains that his interest in environmental contaminant analysis emerged from observing unexplained health problems and environmental degradation while growing up in Nigeria. This motivated his transition into organic and environmental chemistry, with a focus on identifying pollutants present in drinking water, agricultural soils, and food systems. Southwestern Nigeria, particularly the Lagos region, represents a critical environmental monitoring area due to intense industrial development, shipping activity, and widespread human dependence on rivers for domestic use, agriculture, and fishing.</p><p>Although PCBs are considered “<strong>legacy pollutants</strong>” and are no longer intentionally produced, the interview highlights why they continue to persist in aquatic environments. Old electrical transformers and aging industrial equipment still contain PCB residues, while historical contamination stored in river sediments can become remobilized during flooding, dredging, or sediment disturbance. Because PCBs are hydrophobic and resistant to degradation, they preferentially accumulate in sediments and bioaccumulate through aquatic food chains, creating long-term environmental and human exposure risks.</p><p>A major focus of the discussion centers on the analytical workflow used for PCB determination in environmental water samples. Composite river water samples were collected in amber glass bottles to avoid contamination and photodegradation, preserved with sodium azide to minimize microbial activity, and stored under cooled conditions prior to extraction. The analytical protocol employed <strong>liquid–liquid extraction</strong> using dichloromethane (DCM) and hexane to recover both polar and nonpolar PCB congeners. Oloy emphasizes that liquid–liquid extraction was selected over solid-phase extraction (SPE) because of concerns about congener retention within sorbent materials and clogging issues associated with large-volume environmental samples.</p><p>Following extraction, concentration and cleanup represented critical analytical stages due to the trace-level occurrence and volatility of PCBs. Silica and alumina cleanup procedures were used to remove matrix interferences prior to instrumental analysis. The concentration workflow combined rotary evaporation for bulk solvent reduction with nitrogen blowdown for final volume reduction to less than 1 mL, while carefully avoiding excessive temperature or complete dryness to minimize analyte loss. Oloy repeatedly stresses that improper concentration procedures are among the most common causes of analytical failure in PCB analysis.</p><p>For instrumental determination, the study utilized <strong>gas chromatography coupled with electron capture detection (GC-ECD)</strong> rather than LC-MS or GC-MS. According to Oloy, GC was preferred because PCBs are sufficiently volatile for gas chromatographic separation, while ECD provided superior sensitivity and selectivity for chlorinated compounds at environmentally relevant concentrations. The interview also discusses analytical validation strategies, including the use of surrogate standards to assess <strong>recoveries,</strong> which ranged from approximately <strong>85% to 114%</strong>, and signal-to-noise-based determination of detection limits.</p><p>The study further examined <strong>seasonal variations in PCB concentrations</strong>, revealing <strong>higher levels during the wet season</strong>. This observation was attributed to rainfall-driven runoff from contaminated infrastructure, sediment resuspension, and lower temperatures that reduce volatilization losses. To communicate toxicological relevance beyond simple concentration reporting, the researchers also calculated <strong>toxic equivalency values (TEQs)</strong>, converting mixtures of PCB congeners into biologically meaningful toxicity estimates comparable to dioxin toxicity metrics.</p><p>Beyond environmental monitoring, Oloy highlights broader research interests focused on <strong>pollutant remediation and sustainable environmental protection</strong>. His group is also involved in developing catalytic materials capable of degrading or removing persistent contaminants from environmental systems. Throughout the discussion, he emphasizes that analytical chemistry plays a central role not only in detecting pollutants, but also in enabling prevention, remediation, and long-term environmental management strategies.</p></div></div></div></div></div></div></section><blockquote><p><strong>This text has been automatically transcribed from a video presentation using AI technology. It may contain inaccuracies and is not guaranteed to be 100% correct.</strong></p></blockquote><blockquote><h4><strong>Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast</strong></h4><p>Dive into the frontiers of chromatography, mass spectrometry, and sample preparation with host David Oliva. Each episode features candid conversations with leading researchers, industry innovators, and passionate scientists who are shaping the future of analytical chemistry. From decoding PFAS detection challenges to exploring the latest in AI-assisted liquid chromatography, this show uncovers practical workflows, sustainability breakthroughs, and the real-world impact of separation science. Whether you’re a chromatographer, lab professional, or researcher you'll discover inspiring content!</p><p>You can find <strong>Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast </strong>in podcast apps:</p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1wZg67rCjoGju4yhqxI3tL"><strong>Spotify</strong></a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podcasts.apple.com/tz/podcast/concentrating-on-chromatography/id1788429185"><strong>Apple podcast</strong></a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podscan.fm/podcasts/concentrating-on-chromatography"><strong>podscan</strong></a></li></ul><p>and on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChromatographyTalk/videos"><strong>YouTube channel</strong></a></p></blockquote>

Tracking Toxic PCBs in River Water using Gas Chromatography–Electron Capture Detection

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<p><strong>In our Microplastics Symposium, hear from industry experts and peers working within the field of Microplastics.</strong></p>
<p>With a mixture of live talks across various topic areas and product demonstrations, this event is a great opportunity to uncover more about microplastics analysis in the lab. We will also have our experts available to chat live on the day, allowing you to further increase your knowledge and skills on this topical issue.</p>
<h3><strong>What topic areas can you expect to see on the day?</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>Microplastics Analysis with the 8700 LDIR with a focus on the marine environment;</li>
<li>Quantification of Microplastics with GC/MSD;</li>
<li>Current activities in the world of standardization;</li>
<li>Microplastics Analysis with the GC/Q-TOF;</li>
<li>And more.</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Agenda Live Sessions</strong></h3>
<h5><strong>08:30 BST | 09:30 CET Plastic Pollution - Sources, Pathways and Solutions</strong></h5>
<p><em>Presenter: Joao Frias (Marine litter and microplastic researcher Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology)</em></p>
<h5><strong>09:00 BST | 10:00 CET  Microplastic Analytics: Current Activities in the World of Standardisation</strong></h5>
<p><em>Presenter: Claus Gerhard Bannick (Head of wastewater technology research at the Federal Environment Agency)</em></p>
<h5><strong>09:30 BST | 10:30 CET Status of microplastics characterization via ICP-mass spectrometry</strong></h5>
<p><em>Presenter: Eduardo Bolea-Fernandez (Postdoctoral Researcher | Ghent University)</em></p>
<h5><strong>10:00 BST | 11:00 CET Mass Balance Measurements in Microplastics:  An Analytical Comparison of Thermal Extraction, Pyrolysis, and Thermal Extraction – Desorption GC/MS</strong></h5>
<p><em>Presenter: Kurt Thaxton (International Product Manager, Thermal Desorption and Pyrolysis | Gerstel)</em></p>
<h5><strong>10:30 BST | 11:30 CET Detecting microplastics in environmental samples – examples from sludge, mussels, and release experiments</strong></h5>
<p><em>Presenter: Anders Baun (Head of Department | DTU Environment)</em></p>
<h5><strong>11:00 BST | 12:00 CET   Approaches for the Evaluation of FTIR images</strong></h5>
<p><em>Presenter: Jana Weisser (Scientist PhD | Technical University of Munich (TUM))</em></p>
<h5><strong>11.30 BST | 12:30 CET Thermal analytical methods for Microplastics Analysis</strong></h5>
<p><em>Presenter: Ulrike Braun (Head of department | German Environmental Agency)</em></p>
<h5><strong>12.00 BST | 13:00 CET Analysis of microplastics and organic contaminants in marine matrices</strong></h5>
<p><em>Presenter: Laure Papillon (Engineering Administrative Technician | Mediterranean Institute of Oceanography; Mélanie Ourgaud, Post-doc | Mediterranean Institute of Oceanography)</em></p>
<h5><strong>13:00 BST | 14:00 CET  Microplastics in aqueous samples – Requirements for sample preparation and analysis</strong></h5>
<p><em>Presenter: Svenja Mintenig (Phd Student | University of Wageningen)</em></p>
<h5><strong>13:30 BST | 14:30 CET  Nano- and Microplastics Analysis via LDIR and ICP-MS</strong></h5>
<p><em>Presenter: Lars Hildebrandt (Researcher - Inorganic Environmental Chemistry | Helmholtz-Zntrum Hereon)</em></p>
<h5><strong>14:00 BST | 15:00 CET  Looking beyond the polymer: Characterisation of Microplastics by Thermal Desorption GC/MS</strong></h5>
<p><em>Presenter: Helen Martin (Business Unit Manager - Thermal Desorption Instruments | Markes International)</em></p>
<h5><strong>14:30 BST | 15:30 CET  Purency- Machine Learning vs. Databases: A question of speed, accuracy and scalability</strong></h5>
<p><em>Presenter: Benedikt Hufnagl (Chief Technology Officer at Purency | Vienna University of Technology)</em></p>
<h5><strong>15:00 BST | 16:00 CET  Screening of Plastic Addititves and Organic contaminates in microplastics exposed to the Marine Environment by GC-QTOF and LC-QTOF</strong></h5>
<p><em>Presenter: José Benito Quintana (Associate Professor | Universidade de Santiago de Compostela)</em></p>
<h5><strong>15:30 BST | 16:30 CET  Effective Digestion of Fish Stomachs and subsequant microplastics by LDIR</strong></h5>
<p><em>Presenter: José Manuel Andrade-Garda (Professor of Analytical Chemistry | University of Coruna)</em></p>
<h5><strong>16:00 BST | 17:00 CET Environmentally relevant weathered polymer libraries: The current absence, the urgent need, and the potential usage</strong></h5>
<p><em>Presenter: Rick McCumskay, PhD (Researcher | University of Hull)</em></p>
<h5><strong>16:30 BST | 17:30 CET Analysis of microplastics in the gastro-intestinal tract of fishes using LDIR chemical imaging</strong></h5>
<p><em>Presenter: Florian Breider (Head of Unit | École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne - EPFL)</em></p>


Agilent Technologies: Agilent - Microplastics in the Environment Virtual Symposium 2021

Agilent - Microplastics in the Environment Virtual Symposium 2021

<p><strong>The analysis of ETOX and 2-CE in various food products is important to guarantee food safety and meet international regulatory requirements; this is extremely challenging mainly due to the accumulation of high amounts of nonvolatile material in the liner, column and possible interference with Acetaldehyde.</strong></p>
<p>Join this webinar to learn and master how you can develop and implement a robust and automated GC-MS/MS based method in your lab.</p>
<h3><strong>Topics</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>Ethylene oxide in food commodities- Regulations and Testing Requirements</li>
<li>Overcome challenges of ETOX analysis using the most advanced GC-MS/MS system</li>
<li>Fully automated cryogen-free analysis of ethylene oxide and 2-chloroethanol in foods using extraction &amp; multi-step enrichment (MSE®) techniques</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Dr. Kaushik Banerjee (Principal Scientist, National Reference Laboratory, ICAR-National Research Centre for Grapes)</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Dr Kaushik Banerjee is a Principal Scientist from the ICAR-National Research Centre for Grapes, Pune, India. He is a recipient of Fellow of the Indian National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (FNAAS) and Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (FRSC), London. He is a member of the Scientific Panels of the Food Safety Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) on pesticide residues and methods of analysis.Dr Banerjee has widely published in peer-reviewed journals and offered numerous presentations at international meetings and conferences around the world.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Praveen Arya (Product Specialist - GCMS, Agilent Technologies)</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Praveen Arya, Application Engineer at Agilent technologies, has a commitment and appreciation for Gas-phase residue applications. In 2005, Mr. Praveen Arya completed his MSc. in Food Technology from CCS University, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. After post-graduation, he served as a Senior Analyst at SGS, Gurgaon- a commercial testing laboratory for 6 years and developed expertise in Residue analysis using sophisticated chromatographic instruments such as LCMS and GCMS. After that, in 2011, He joined Agilent Technologies as an Application Engineer where he supported country-wide GCMS customers for resolving application issues and method development. He has more than 15 years of experience in residue analysis in food and environmental samples using various high end chromatographic and spectrometric techniques (GC, GCMS, GCMS/MS, TDS, Headspace, Purge &amp; trap etc.). His area of specialization includes new analytical method development and validation as per national and international guidelines.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Rachael Szafnauer (Product Marketing Manager, Extraction &amp; Enrichment Products, Markes International)</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Rachael Szafnauer received an M.Sci in forensic science from the University of South Wales, UK where her final-year project focused on fingerprinting emerging psychoactive substances using advanced techniques such as GCXGC-TOF MS, in collaboration with Markes International. She later took up the role of thermal desorption product specialist at Markes, providing technical and application support to the commercial team, before taking on her current role as Product Marketing Manager for Centri® product line and specialising in the development of applications using extraction &amp; enrichment techniques for GCMS.</p>
</blockquote>


Agilent Technologies: Analysis of ETOX and 2-CE in various food products

Analysis of ETOX and 2-CE in various food products

<p><strong>Whether you are interested in emerging research, routine analysis or regulatory developments, this virtual symposium will give you access to the knowledge of leading thought-leaders in the fields of PFAS and Dioxins analysis as well as insights into the latest analytical workflows used to monitor these ‘forever chemicals’.</strong></p>
<p>You will be able to choose from the topics on the agenda and listen at leisure to those of interest.</p>
<p>This on-demand resource of pre-recorded presentations will enable you to stay up-to date with the latest trends and developments in the analysis of PFAS and Dioxins from the comfort of your laboratory or office.</p>
<h3><strong>Part 1. PFAS Analysis</strong></h3>
<h5><strong>Finger lickin’ bad? Optimized per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) analysis in dairy, meat, seafood &amp; produce.</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Tarun Anumol, Ph.D. (Director, Global Food &amp; Environmental Markets, Agilent Technologies)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>LC-MS/MS: The key to analyzing PFAS in milk, infant formula and related food ingredients</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Lukas Vaclavik (Technical Manager, Eurofins Food Integrity &amp; Innovation, Harrogate, UK)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>Streamlined PFAS annotation and visualization with FluoroMatch Flow and Visualizer</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Stephan Baumann (Application Applied Segment Manager, Agilent Technologies)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>PFAS analysis: application in the water works of Berlin, Germany</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Frederik Zietzschmann (Laboratory of Berliner Wasserbetriebe, Germany)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>Perspectives and challenges of commercial environmental PFAS testing in the USA</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Stephen Somerville (Technical Director – PFAS, Pace Analytical, USA)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>Optimizing sample extraction for PFAS analysis</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Dr. Bradley Clarke (Senior Lecturer in Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry, University of Melbourne)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>Addressing the new Drinking Water Inspectorate requirements for the analysis of PFAS in water.</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Marcus Chadha (Field LC/MS Application Specialist, Agilent Technologies)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>Optimization and application of analytical methods for assessing PFAS treatment and toxicity)</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Dr. Arjun Venkatesan (Associate Director, Center for Clean Water Technology, Stony Brook University, USA</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>Sampling and analysis of volatile PFAS in air by TD-GC-MS</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Carlos Gil (Business Development Manager, Markes International GmbH)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>Using thermal desorption and GC-MS/MS for the analysis of PFAS compounds in air for improved detectability &amp; reliability.</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Kurt Thaxton (International Product Manager, Gerstel, USA)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Part 2. Dioxins Analysis</strong></h3>
<h5><strong>Introducing the Agilent dioxin workflow kit for the determination of PCDD and PCDF in foods and feeds</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Jörg Riener (GC and GC/MS Product Specialist, Agilent Technologies)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>Implementation and evaluation of hydrogen as a GC carrier gas for the rapid analysis of PCDD/Fs using the novel High Efficiency Ion Source of the 7010 GC/QQQ</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Frank Neugebauer (Senior Scientist, Head of Special Parameter Unit, Eurofins GfA Lab Service, Hamburg, German)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>Recent advances in the routine analysis of dioxins in food and environmental samples</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Bob Symons (Regional Technical Manager, Eurofins Environment Testing Australia)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>Agilent GC-QTOF workflow for EPA Method 1613B</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Marica Beggio (Product Specialist GC-GC/MS, Agilent Technologies)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>Sensitive, automated, and certificated GC-QTOF analysis of 17 dioxins and furans in different complex environmental matrices according to EPA 1613B 1994</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Nicole Canfora (LABORATORI CHIMICI “STANTE” SRL)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>Development of an Alternate Testing Protocol (ATP) to EPA1613B for analysis of dioxins in wastewater using EI-GC/ MS/MS</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Tarun Anumol (Director, Global Environment &amp; Food Applied Markets, Agilent Technologies)</li>
</ul>


Agilent Technologies: Forever Chemicals Analysis Virtual Summit

Forever Chemicals Analysis Virtual Summit

This virtual symposium will give you access to the knowledge of leading thought-leaders in the fields of PFAS and Dioxins.

<p><strong>Welcome to Thermo Fisher Scientific&#39;s 2022 Detection and Quantification of PFAS in Air, Water, Soil, and Food Packaging e-learning series.  In the first event of our three-part eSeminar series, three leading experts in PFAS analysis will discuss pressing topics around the persistence of PFAS in air, including sampling and analytical technologies, regulatory development, and environmental remediation.</strong></p>
<p>Global regulatory bodies are investigating for the prevalence of PFAS compounds due to their toxicity, persistence, and widespread use. Initially thought of as inert and potentially a wonder chemical, their usage in everyday products has been widespread, and it is estimated that there are now well over 6000 possible PFAS compounds. Human exposure to PFAS residues has been implicated in the incidence of cancer, obesity, endocrine system disruption, and other adverse health effects. This exposure can be traced back to their existence in food packaging material and food processing equipment, air, and plants- which accumulate PFAS when grown in PFAS-containing soil and/or water and can also be consumed by animals destined to enter the food chain.  In this eSeminar series, we address critical considerations to help ensure your success in meeting the evolving needs for PFAS extraction and analysis.</p>
<h5><strong>Learning points</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Learn how alkaline hydrolysis allows for fast and complete conversion of FTOH-based side-chain polymers to free FTOHs and opens a way for quantitative analysis of FTOH precursors in textiles and other products like impregnation sprays</li>
<li>Discover how products can result from incomplete PFAS destruction and the importance of non-targeted approaches in their analysis</li>
<li>Learn how thermal desorption instrumentation coupled to triple quadrupole GC-MS can enable measurement of PFAS in air at trace levels</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Vladimir Nikiforov (Senior Scientist, Norwegian Institute for Air Research)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Dr. Vladimir Nikiforov graduated from st.Petersburg State University in 1986, got a degree in 1990 (“Synthesis of fluoroketones… for extraction of anions”) and continued with the same university doing research and teaching in Synthetic organic, Physical organic, Environmental chemistry until 2010. From 2010 to 2014 he was a head of laboratory of migration of POPs in the Center of Ecological Safety of the Russian Academy of Sciences and then joined NILU-Norwegian Institute for Air research. His current research interests include PFAS and other organofluorines, Non-target and suspect screening, QSAR, development of analytical methods for new pollutants and microplactics in al matrices, and in air samples in particular.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Laura Miles (Senior Application Specialist, Markes International)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>As senior application specialist in the thermal desorption business unit, Laura is responsible for developing new methods and testing Markes International’s suite of thermal desorber for new and emerging applications. Laura joined Markes International as a customer support specialist in 2014 before moving to work in application development. As part of her current role Laura works closely with key opinion leaders in collaborations across a variety of market areas and she is a specialist in environmental analysis, breathomics and defense and forensics.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Stephen Jackson (Chemist, Environmental Protection Agency)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Stephen Jackson is a chemist in the Combustion Source Branch of the US EPA Office of Research and Development’s Center for Environmental Measurement &amp; Modeling, Air Methods and Characterization Division. There he works to develop sampling and analytical methods for airborne PFAS with a focus on non-targeted analyses. Prior to joining the EPA in 2019, he worked as a research chemist for the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. Stephen received a BA in Chemistry from Hendrix College and a PhD in Chemistry from Vanderbilt University.</p>
</blockquote>


Thermo Scientific: PFAS: Appearing out of thin air?

PFAS: Appearing out of thin air?

Learn how thermal desorption instrumentation coupled to triple quadrupole GC-MS can enable measurement of PFAS in air at trace levels

<p><strong>Join Agilent and GERSTEL for our annual virtual seminar discussing how you can assure safety, authenticity, and quality of alcoholic beverages. Sharing the latest in technology developments and capabilities, new applications, and customer stories. Topics include distilled beverages, wine and beer.  There is something for everyone in this seminar series and we hope to see you there.</strong></p>
<p>Attend live and receive an Agilent GC wine glass!</p>
<h3><strong>Presentation 1: Evolution of malt, hop and fermentation-derived flavor compounds throughout the brewing of a single malt, single hop (SMaSH) ale</strong></h3>
<p>Beer is a complex mixture of volatile and nonvolatile compounds that arise from malt, hops and fermentation by yeast. Some compounds are extracted from malt and hops during mashing and boiling, respectively. Others are products of reactions that occur throughout the brewing process, such as Maillard reactions, Strecker degradation reactions, the isomerization of alpha-acids and the Ehrlich pathway in yeast. The integration of GC/MS and LC/MS data affords the ability to monitor these reactions in real time. Targeted metabolomic techniques were used to show formation of volatile flavor compounds from their nonvolatile precursors, (e.g. amino acids) and the transformation of non-volatile hop-derived compounds, thus providing a detailed picture of flavor development throughout brewing of a single malt, single hop beer.</p>
<p>Key Learning Objectives/What attendees will learn:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Integration of SPME GC/MS, HILIC LC/MS and RP LC/MS data to monitor the production of flavor compounds from nonvolatile precursors throughout the beer brewing process</strong></li>
<li><strong>Utilization of targeted metabolomic techniques to identify reaction intermediates produced from nonvolatile precursors en route to volatile flavor compounds</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>Who Should Attend:</p>
<ul>
<li>Those interested in the comprehensive mass spectrometric characterization of precursors and metabolites produced during beer brewing and fermentation</li>
<li>Brewers, brewery chemists, food chemists</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Christine Hughey (Professor of Chemistry, Department of Chemistry &amp; Biochemistry, James Madison University) </p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Dr. Hughey is a Professor at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA. She is an analytical chemist with expertise in mass spectrometry who has collaborated with food chemists and brewers for over two decades. Her most recent collaboration with the Madison Academic Brewery, housed within the Engineering Department at JMU, has focused on the integration of GC/MS and LC/MS techniques to monitor reactions that produce flavor compounds during brewing and fermentation.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3><strong>Presentation 2: Beer Soluble Hop Compounds: Translating Raw Hop Aroma to Finished Beer</strong></h3>
<p>Translating hop aroma to finished beer aroma has been a brewing challenge for years.  Hops have been a primary ingredient in beer for over a thousand years for preservation as well as bittering because of their humulone compounds.  That is not the only reason that hops are used in beer the Craft beer industry brought back the use of hops for flavor and aroma to create floral, citrus and fruity beers.  Instead of utilizing hops early in the kettle boil for bitterness the brewers utilize hops in late kettle additions, and after primary fermentation to extract the aroma from hops.  The goal is to extract the pleasant aroma that one can smell in hops and capture it into the final beer. </p>
<p>Utilizing an Agilent GC/MS that was outfitted with a Gerstel MPS for the use of Twister stir bars in conjunction with a Thermal Desorption Unit (TDU) for raw hop and beer analysis it was determined that a select handful of hop derived compounds were consistently present in beer samples contributing to the overall flavor and aroma. A second Agilent GC was purchased that was outfitted with a Quadrupole Time-of-Flight (Q-ToF) and a Sulfur Chemiluminescence Detector (SCD). This instrument was also set up with a Gerstel robotic MPS and TDU/CIS. With the addition of the SCD, sulfur-containing compounds became an area of focus along with the select handful of compounds present in beer which are collectively known as the ‘survivables’. These compounds are isobutyl isobutyrate, isoamyl isobutyrate, 2-methylbutyl isobutyrate, methyl geranate, 2-nonanone, geraniol, linalool and 3-mercaptohexanol.  The concentrations of these select compounds were determined across the hop varieties YCH supplies and utilize that data to help brewers make more informed decisions about when and what varieties to add during the brewing process to provide the strongest impact to their final beer. This data was to create pellet blends where hop varietals are blended to maximize the ‘survivable’ compounds content, which was released as a new product. </p>
<p>Most recently, YCH has acquired two more GC/MS systems for quantitative analysis of these ‘survivable’ compounds for all hop products. The new systems are equipped with carousel-style autosamplers with a syringe for liquid injection samples. The aromatics are extracted by steam distillation and the hop oil sample diluted in hexane and injected with the syringe into a high-temperature inlet followed by introduction in the analytical column.  With these new systems and developed analytical method, we can offer the analytical data for ‘survivables’ to brewers on all product types. </p>
<p>Key Learning Objectives/What attendees will learn:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>A description of the research conducted that started as exploratory research to a final QC analytical methodology.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Methods for using beer soluble hop compound research to design efficient recipes and a blended hop product that targets these compounds.</strong></li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Patrick Jensen (Director of R&amp;D, Yakima Chief Hops LLC)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Patrick Jensen has been with YCH for more than five years. He was born in Yakima, Washington and knew nothing of hops and beer until he graduated from Central Washington University with a B.S. in chemistry in 2004. He owned a Thai restaurant where he was the head chef, but soon after graduation ended up in the hop industry. He has managed several hop quality laboratories since and is the Director of Research and Development for Yakima Chiefs Hops. He works to develop analytical methods for hop and brewing research, develops new products and provides technical expertise to our growers, production processes, quality control and sales team. Pat believes all beer is great, because…can you believe I get paid me to do what I love? He lives in Yakima, Washington with his wife, daughter, and twin autistic sons. </p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Jacqueline Brummett (R&amp;D Laboratory Supervisor, Yakima Chief Hops LLC)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Jacqueline Brummett is a born and raised Washington resident who graduated from Central Washington University with a BS in Biological Sciences. After working in clinical lab in Seattle, Jacqueline relocated to Yakima and now supervises the Research and Development Lab at YCH. Jacqueline coordinates the analysis to support sensory team and pilot brewery projects in addition to conducting trials to further explore the many facets of hops. Her current area of focus has been on GC/MS method development for hop oil analysis.</p>
</blockquote>


Pixabay/Marcelo Ikeda Tchelão: 3rd Annual Alcoholic Beverages Virtual Symposium - Beer

3rd Annual Alcoholic Beverages Virtual Symposium - Beer

Evolution of malt, hop and fermentation-derived flavor compounds throughout the brewing. Beer Soluble Hop Compounds: Translating Raw Hop Aroma to Finished Beer

<p><strong>Non-alcoholic (NA) and low alcoholic beers (LABs) are growing in demand worldwide. However, dealcoholization or arrested fermentation leads to changes in the overall aroma and flavor profiles compared to full strength (FS) beer analogues.</strong></p>
<p>This webinar Dr. Tiffany Crawford, Kalsec Inc., Megan Harper, GERSTEL, Inc., and Matt Curtis, Agilent will discuss a semi-targeted method developed using DHS-GC-MS technology that allows for the improvement of NA beer flavor through the addition of specialized hops products. They will also examine the use of GC-MS-O technology to determine the source of off-odors in a plant extract matrix. A brief overview of the GERSTEL dynamic headspace (DHS), Thermal Desorption Unit (TDU), and olfactory detection port (ODP) systems will be highlighted in order to understand their contributions to this work. The Agilent 7250 GC/QToF functionality will also be reviewed, along with the software tools e.g. SureMass feature-finding and MassProfiler Professional.</p>
<p>Key learning objectives</p>
<ul>
<li><p><strong>Understand the analytical challenges in the determination of off-flavors and off-odors in complex matrices</strong></p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Discover how a combination of GERSTEL and Agilent instrumentation and software can improve analysis for food and beverage applications</strong></p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Explore how analytical techniques can be used to identify and solve sensory issues in food products</strong></p>
</li>
</ul>
<p>Who should attend?</p>
<ul>
<li>Chemists and lab managers from contract testing labs and the food and beverage industry</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Dr. Tiffany Crawford (Lead Scientist 1: Hops, Kalsec Inc.)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Dr. Tiffany Crawford works for Kalsec Inc. as a lead scientist in the hops business unit. In her role, she develops methods using GC-MS and LC-MS technology for the detection of small molecules of interest in different food matrices. She holds a Ph.D in Chemistry from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Megan Harper (Applications Scientist I, GERSTEL, Inc.)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Megan Harper works for GERSTEL, Inc. as an Applications Scientist. In her role, she applies her knowledge of GC-MS and sample extraction and introduction techniques to help solve complex problems for customers across the USA.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Matt Curtis (GCMS Application Scientist, Agilent)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Matt Curtis joined Agilent in 2013 as a GC/MS applications scientist in the Santa Clara, CA Center of Excellence. His primary responsibility is providing instrument demonstrations for customer interested in each technology Agilent offers: the GC/MS single quadrupole, triple quadrupole and the quadrupole Time-of-Flight. The variety of different samples submitted to the demo lab provides a unique knowledge of optimizing parameters for different applications to provide the best quality data from the instrument.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Ellen Simms (Editorial Team, SelectScience)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Ellen studied biological sciences at the University of the West of England, UK, before completing a master&#39;s in epidemiology from the University of Bristol. As a member of the Editorial team, she now plays an integral role in shaping the content on SelectScience.</p>
</blockquote>


SelectScience: GC-MS solutions for sensory analysis in non-alcoholic beers

GC-MS solutions for sensory analysis in non-alcoholic beers

Semi-targeted method developed using DHS-GC-MS technology that allows for the improvement of NA beer flavor through the addition of specialized hops products.

<p><strong>Come learn about the considerations, configuration, and results achieved using Gerstel thermal desorption technology with Agilent GC/TQ.</strong></p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Matthew Curtis (GC/MS Applications Scientist, Agilent)</p><p>Matt joined Agilent in 2013 as a GC/MS applications scientist in the Santa Clara, CA Center of Excellence. His primary responsibility is focused on providing instrument demos for customer interested in each technology Agilent offers; the GC/MS single quadrupole, triple quadrupole and the quadrupole Time-of-Flight. The variety of different samples submitted to the demo lab provide a unique knowledge of optimizing parameters for different applications to provide the best quality data from the instrument.<br>&nbsp;</p></blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Choose Intelligence

PFAS: Wait! Are You Saying there are PFAS in Air Now?

Come learn about the considerations, configuration, and results achieved using Gerstel thermal desorption technology with Agilent GC/TQ.

GCMS webinars focusing on GC/MS/MS, Thermal desorption - page 1