Abstract
In this study, a simple and sensitive digital image-based flow-batch analyzer (DIB-FBA) was developed for the chemical speciation of iron in tomato samples. The Fe(II) determination is based on the Fe(II)/1,10-phenanthroline reaction. Total iron was determined by reducing all Fe(III) to Fe(II) with ascorbic acid, and Fe(III) was calculated by subtracting Fe(II) content from the total iron content. Digital images were obtained using a webcam, reducing costs and simplifying the instrumentation. RGB data was extracted using software written in ActionScript 3.0, and the B component was employed to build the analytical curve. Samples of different tomato types and certified reference material were successfully analyzed using the DIB-FBA, which presented satisfactory performance parameters such as working range (0.1–1.0 mg L−1), LOD (2.33 μg L–1), LOQ (7.72 μg L–1), RSD (0.05% to 0.45%), analytical frequency (64 h–1), sample (150 µL) and waste (1.9 mL) volume. Furthermore, according to paired t-test at a 95% confidence level, no significant differences between the results from the DIB-FBA and those from the reference methods were found. The advantageous combination of digital image and flow automation provided by the DIB-FBA can be further explored for the speciation of other metals in diverse food samples.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
