Ann. Méd. Vét., 2006, 150 (2), pp 131-136 Residues and contaminants in food : 25 years of progress in their analysis
III. Confirmatory methods based on mass spectrometryDE BRABANDER H.F., MAGHUIN-ROGISTER G.Abstract :
Since 20 years, the evolution of analytical methods has been spectacular due to the development of new equipments, financially available to more laboratories.
These progresses allowed the increase of the number of substances under surveillance and to dramatically lower limits of detection. Particularly, liquid chromatography techniques are more and more efficient. In a near future, the probability is high of having particularly efficient LC-MS methods respectful of the environment. By contrast to progress done by chemists
at the level of analytical performances,
other chemists are setting up undetectable treatments using new unauthorised substances allowing smugglers escaping to control. Using multiple mass spectrometry-based analytical techniques, not yet identified substances are undetectable.
It is thus mandatory to use other methods such as bioassays which are able to detect hormonal or toxic activities. This evolution at the analytical level
is not without consequence for the inspection services. It is the task of competent authorities and inspection services to define the rules of interpretation of analytical results in order to lead the decision about the conformity of examined samples towards
legislation. Lastly, the competent
authority has to take into account the evolution of the situation in terms of residues and contaminants in food by adapting their decisions about the conformity or not of a product. Get the PDF Contact person : G.Maghuin@ulg.ac.be |