Quantification of PFAS in rice and maize: Validation of a UHPLC-HRMS/MS isotopic dilution approach in support to food safety

Abstract

In the present work, an analytical method for the quantification of per and poly fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in rice and maize has been developed and then validated with a metrological approach. PFAS are a group of human-made chemicals used in a variety of industries and consumer products for their water- and grease-resistant properties. Studies have shown that PFAS can contaminate soil and water, and there is concern about their bioaccumulation in edible plants, fruits, and cereals. The presence of PFAS has been identified in rice and other food products, including maize, as indicated by studies and scientific literature. This is particularly alarming since some PFAS have been associated with adverse health effects and rice and maize account for over 20% of the annual food intake worldwide. Despite this evidence, the regulation currently in place is not covering cereal matrices and limits of quantification for matrices encompassed by the current legislation are defined for a small group of PFAS. In this study an UHPLC-HRMS/MS based method was validated, obtaining a LOQ (Limit Of Quantification) ranging between 2 ng/kg and 32 ng/kg and robustness in line with EU guidelines and recommendation for PFAS in food. Additionally, a metrological approach was employed to estimate the uncertainty budget, utilizing modeling and experimental methods, and comparing the outcomes, aiming to characterize with high accuracy PFAS in rice and maize and support control bodies to assess contamination in suspected areas. A comparison of uncertainty of different approaches was conducted after applying the method to 30 real samples.