Pesticide Analysis in Botanicals and Essential Oils

On Monday, Jerry Mueller, MS specialist at the natural food company NOW Foods, presented research at the North America Chemical Residue Workshop (NACRW) on a new method for pesticide analysis using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) and gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (GC–MS/MS) (1).

The presentation, titled "Streamlined Sample Preparation for LC-MS/MS and GC-MS/MS Multi-residue Pesticides Analysis in Botanicals and Essential Oils Using Novel Mixed Mode Cartridge Passthrough Cleanup" was one of several on sample preparation and processing methodologies for residue testing.

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Finding better methods for testing pesticides in agriculture has been a longstanding focus of scientists, who are increasingly looking for new ways to ensure the safety of botanicals and essential oils. Improving pesticide analysis ensures that botanicals and essential oils meet the highest standards for purity and integrity.

The method Mueller described uses a mixed-mode cartridge passthrough cleanup system. By combining LC–MS/MS and GC–MS/MS, the researchers were able to complete comprehensive residue analysis across multiple pesticide classes.

The cleanup system can eliminate interfering matrix components, improve analyte recovery, and enhance sensitivity. As a result, these advancements significantly reduce analysis time, which allows for faster and more accurate results.

Reference

(1) Mueller, J. Streamlined Sample Preparation for LC-MS/MS and GC-MS/MS Multi-residue Pesticides Analysis in Botanicals and Essential Oils Using Novel Mixed Mode Cartridge Passthrough Cleanup. Presented at: North American Chemical Residue Workshop 2023. July 22–25, 2023. Fort Lauderdale, Florida. O-08.