Analytical improvements shown over four interlaboratory studies of perfluoroalkyl substances in environmental and food samples

Abstract

► The analytical performance of determining PFAS in food and environmental samples. ► Results from the 4 th interlaboratory study of PFAS in food and environmental samples. ► The experience of participants improved the analytical quality of PFAS determination. ► Several sources of errors were identified and methods to avoid them suggested. An increasing number of reports confirm the world-wide presence of the perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs). As a consequence, the demand for qualitative and quantitative environmental occurrence data requires accurate risk assessments. To improve the analytical quality of the determination of PFASs in food and environmental samples, a 4 th international interlaboratory study (ILS) was conducted in 2011. A total of 31 partners participated, and, depending on the sample matrix, up to 29 data sets were submitted. The ILS focused on food samples, as it was organized by the PERFOOD consortium in collaboration with QUASIMEME. The results showed that the cumulative experience of the participants has improved their analytical quality over four international ILSs. Several sources of errors were identified and methods to avoid them are suggested.