Validation of modified QuEChERS extraction method for quantitative enrichment of seven multiclass antibiotic residues from vegetables followed by RP-LC-UV analysis

Abstract

A modified rapid, simple quick, cheap, effective, robust and safe (QuEChERS) extraction method was developed for the simultaneous extraction and purification of seven antibiotic residues in lettuce, carrot and tomato using liquid chromatography UV detector. The method was validated for linearity, sensitivity, accuracy, repeatability, and reproducibility at six concentration levels for all matrices, according to the guidelines of UNODC. A matrix-matched calibration method was used for the quantitative analysis. Linear range of 0.01–250 μg kg−1 for target compounds with correlation coefficient (R2) 0.9978–0.9995 was obtained. The limits of detections (LODs) and quantifications (LOQs) were 0.02–2.48 μg kg−1 were 0.06–7.52 μg kg−1, respectively. The average recoveries of the seven antibiotics ranged from 74.5 to 105.9%, with relative standard deviation RSD (%) < 11, for all matrices and matrix effects were less than 20% for most of compounds. This comprehensive simple QuEChERS extraction method can be used for the investigation of multi-residue drugs belonging to different chemical families in vegetables.