Estimation of toxic elements in jam, juice and concentrates using Shimadzu Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometer (ICP-MS)

Significance of the Topic

Commercial fruit jams, juices and concentrates are popular due to their nutritional value and bioactive compounds. However, these products may contain toxic trace elements from raw materials, processing and environment. Monitoring elemental composition is crucial for ensuring food safety and quality.

Objectives and Study Overview

This work aimed to develop and validate a rapid ICP-MS method using the Shimadzu ICPMS-2030 for quantifying toxic elements in jams, juices and concentrates against FSSAI limits.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Sample Preparation:

• Approximately 500 mg of each sample underwent microwave-assisted acid digestion with nitric acid and water.
• Digests were diluted to 50 mL and spiked at LOQ and 10× LOQ levels for recovery tests.

Instrumentation:

• Shimadzu ICPMS-2030 with AS-10 autosampler and helium collision cell.
• RF power 1.2 kW, plasma gas flow 10 L/min, auxiliary 1.1 L/min, carrier 0.7 L/min.

Calibration and Limits:

• Linearity established over seven points with certified standards; correlation coefficients ≥ 0.999.
• LOQs ranged from 0.02 ppm for As and Cd to 50 ppm for Sn.

Results and Discussion

All target elements in unspiked samples were below their LOQs. Spike recovery at LOQ and 10× LOQ levels ranged from 80 % to 120 %, demonstrating good accuracy. Linearity curves confirmed method robustness across all analytes.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• The developed ICP-MS method provides sensitive, accurate quantification of toxic elements in fruit products.
• Routine application ensures compliance with food safety regulations and supports quality control.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Integration with other hyphenated techniques could expand multi-element profiling. Advancements in data processing may improve throughput and enable real-time monitoring in production lines.

Conclusion

The Shimadzu ICPMS-2030 method allows reliable detection of toxic trace elements in jams, juices and concentrates, meeting regulatory requirements and offering a practical tool for routine quality assurance.

References

1. FSSAI Contaminants, Toxins and Residues Regulations, 2006
2. FSSAI Contaminants, Toxins and Residues Regulations, 2011
3. EU Commission Regulation No 836/2011