Method validation for GC-measurable pesticides and PAHs in baby foods using QuEChERS-based extraction procedure

Abstract

This study evaluated 14 GC-measurable polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and 4 pesticides in fifty baby food samples commercialized in Brazil. Gas chromatography coupled to high resolution mass spectrometry was used to conduct the analyses. The use of quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe (QuEChERS) method and dispersive solid-phase extraction (d-SPE) achieved suitable performance characteristics for both methods. For the pesticides determination, recovery rates ranged from 87% to 120% and the limit of quantification (LOQ) was 2–10 µg kg−1. For the PAHs analysis method, recoveries between 71% and 120% were obtained. Limit of quantification was established at 0.1 µg kg−1 for the different compounds. Additionally, good linearity within the analyzed range through matrix-matching calibration has been observed for both methodologies, demonstrating the suitability of proposed method for baby food control. As a result, 24% of the analyzed samples contained pesticide residues quantified or detected at concentrations ranging from below LOQ to 4.1 μg kg−1, while PAHs were not detected in any sample. These findings underscore the necessity for increased vigilance in safeguarding infant food, as even low concentrations of pesticide residues pose a risk in baby food. Furthermore, in Brazil, there are scarce studies conducted to analyze these contaminants in baby foods. We recommend conducting monitoring system to assess the potential health risks for babies resulting from exposure to these contaminants through food.