Comprehensive GCxGC Coupled to MS for the Analysis of Food Samples

This article describes the analytical challenges of chemical exposomics in food safety. The need for high-throughput, multi-platform approaches—such as LC–HRMS and GC–HRMS with IMS—to capture the full spectrum of potential contaminants in our food supply is emphasised.

Food contact materials contain low molecular weight additives and processing aids which can migrate into foods leading to trace levels of contamination. Food safety is ensured through regulations, comprising compositional controls and migration limits, which present a significant analytical challenge to the food industry to ensure compliance and demonstrate due diligence. Of the various analytical approaches, LC-MS/MS has proved to be an essential tool in monitoring migration of target compounds into foods, and more sophisticated approaches such as LC-high resolution MS (Orbitrap) are being increasingly used for untargeted analysis to monitor non-intentionally added substances. This podcast will provide an overview to this area, illustrated with various applications showing current approaches being employed.

As a precursor to the Lindau Nobel Laureate Meetings, Texas A&M University held a meeting for future Lindau attendees to highlight the institution’s scientific facilities. One such attendee is Caitlin Cain of the University of Michigan, one of LCGC International’s 2024 Rising Stars of Separation Science.

Cryogenic systems were recently tested for their ability to improve gas chromatography’s ability to modulate multi-component mixtures.

Here is some of the most-read content posted on LCGC International this week.

Grape pomace, a byproduct of the winery industry, holds various phenolic compounds within it. Scientists used liquid chromatography-based techniques to harvest these potentially beneficial components.