Food and Beverage Analysis

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Rising Stars of Separation Science 2024

Webinar Dates/Times: Friday, December 13, 2024 Morning Session: 12:30 pm GMT | 1:30 pm CET | 7:30 am EST Afternoon Session: 2:30 pm GMT | 3:30 pm CET | 9:30 am EST

A series of lectures focusing on emerging analytical techniques used to analyse food contamination took place on Wednesday 6 November 2024 at RAFA 2024 in Prague, Czech Republic. The session included new approaches for analysing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), polychlorinated alkanes (PCAS), Mineral Oil Hydrocarbons (MOH), and short- and medium-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs and MCCPs).

whiskey and natural ice | Image Credit: © Igor Normann - stock.adobe.com

Researchers from Austria, Greece, and Italy conducted a study to analyze volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present in Irish and Scotch whiskys using solid-phase microextraction (SPME) Arrow with comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC×GC–MS) to examine the organoleptic characteristics that influence the taste of spirits.

The article discusses the application of a hybrid organic/inorganic surface technology that forms a barrier between the sample and the metal surfaces of both the HPLC system and chromatographic column. Formed by a vapor deposition of an ethylene-bridged siloxane polymer on metal substrates), this technology effectively addresses common chromatographic challenges such as analyte loss, carryover, and peak tailing due to metal-analyte interactions. It improves peak symmetry and areas, as well as reproducibility, thereby not only benefiting challenging analytes but also increasing confidence in analytical results. We demonstrate the benefits of this technology through the analysis of B-group vitamins, steviol glycosides, and dextran oligosaccharides typically found in food, beverages, and dietary supplements, showcasing its critical role in improving chromatographic performance.

green, white, black and herbal tea | Image Credit: © MarekPhotoDesign.com - stock.adobe.com

Analyzing functional foods reveals numerous health benefits. These foods are rich in bioactive compounds that go beyond basic nutrition, boosting the immune system and improving overall wellness. However, analyzing these compounds can be challenging. This article discusses AI algorithms to support automated method development for liquid chromatography, simplifying the process, enhancing labor efficiency, and ensuring precise results, making it accessible to non-experts for tea analysis.

Close-up of chicken fresh eggs in eco-packaging on a blue background. Broken egg with yolk in the shell. Farm natural products. Top view. | Image Credit: © TATIANA

The European Commission's regulation on maximum levels for certain contaminants in food highlights the need for precise and reliable methods to quantify per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in various food matrices. This article discusses development and validation of a robust method for analyzing 21 PFAS compounds in chicken eggs using solid-phase extraction (SPE) and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS).