Search

In recent decades, obesity and its associated health issues have risen dramatically. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated this trend, underscoring the pressing need for new strategies to manage weight. Functional foods designed to modulate lipid digestion and absorption rates and thereby reduce the assimilation of dietary fats have gained increasing attention in food science as a potentially safer alternative to weight-loss medications. This review provides insights into controlled lipid digestion and customized delivery of fats. The first section introduces basic concepts of lipid digestion and absorption in the human gastrointestinal tract. The second section discusses factors regulating lipid digestion and absorption rates, as well as strategies for modulating lipid assimilation from food. The third section focuses on applications of controlled lipid digestion in developing personalized foods designed for specific consumer groups, with particular emphasis on two target populations: overweight individuals and infants. [Display omitted] • Factors influencing lipid digestion and absorption rates are identified. • Current strategies to modulate assimilation of dietary fats are discussed. • Innovative solutions for personalized nutrition based on consumer needs are presented. • Future research directions for controlled lipid digestion are indicated. • Potential health benefits of tailored functional foods are summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comprehensive analysis of 89 commercial baby food samples showed the highest levels of furan in ready-to-eat full meals and vegetable purees (12–118 μg/kg). The alkylated furans (2- and 3-methylfuran, 2-ethylfuran, 2-pentylfuran) were predominantly found in these baby food categories. Furfuryl alcohol was notably abundant in ready-to-eat cereal porridge (3,550–13,100 μg/kg). The addition of lactose to self-made cereal porridge strongly influenced the formation of furfuryl alcohol. After reheating selected commercial baby food samples, a reduction of furan by 38 %, methylfurans by 28 %, and 2-ethylfuran by 26 % has been achieved. Raw materials, vegetable varieties, and storage conditions had a major impact on furan formation, which requires an adaptation of processing parameters. The most promising mitigation of furan (by 44 %) and most furan derivatives in vegetable puree were achieved by adding the additive calcium lactate gluconate. In contrast, in cereal porridge, the formation of furfuryl alcohol was reduced by 28 %. • Full meal ready-to-eat baby foods showed highest levels of furan and alkylfurans. • Ready-to-eat cereal porridge showed highest levels of furfuryl alcohol. • The storage temperature of potatoes had an impact on furan formation. • Reheating ready-to-eat baby foods led to a mean furan reduction of 37 %. • Calcium lactate gluconate had a reducing effect on furan and most derivatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Method for multi-metal analysis in baby food products. • Liquid phase microextraction based switchable-hydrophilicity solvents-based method. • Optimization and validation of analytical method confirms its applicability. • High extraction (recovery%) up to 99% by selective extraction system. • Highly selective, sensitive and precise method for routine quality control of foods. This manuscript describes the development of a novel liquid phase microextraction (LPME) method for the extraction and determination of Zn (II), Fe (II), Pb (II), and Cd (II) in various infant/baby food and supplements products. The method is based on vortex-assisted extraction combined with a switchable-hydrophilicity solvent (SHS) sample preparation. The SHS, which undergoes reversible phase changes triggered by pH change, enables selective extraction and easy phase separation. A flame atomic absorption spectroscopy was used in the final determination step. Optimization studies revealed, that the optimal pH of the sample solution (after digestion) during analytes extraction is 5.5. A l -proline is added to the sample (375 mM) to ensure the complexation of the target metal cations. After the complexation step, 750 µL of SHS - a N, N -Dimethylcyclohexylamine along with 0.9 mL of 2 M of acetic acid solution is added (hydrophilicity switch-on stage) and mixed manually to obtain a homogeneous solution. In the last stage, 0.45 mL of 10 M NaOH solution (hydrophilicity switch-off stage) is added to the sample solution and a vortex for 100 s is applied to ensure the effective extraction and separation of the complex containing the analytes. At this stage, a cloudy solution is immediately obtained. Finally, the effective phase separation is obtained at the centrifugation step (4000 rpm for 2 mins). The method limit of detection was as 0.03, 0.009, 0.6, and 0.2 ng/L for Zn (II), Fe (II), Cd (II), and Pb (II) respectively with RSD% below 2.0 %. The analysis of certified reference materials and real samples proved the full applicability of the method for routine analysis, contributing to the field of heavy metal analysis and ensuring the safety of baby products. According to the AGREE methodology, this method can be named as green analytical chemistry method with a score of 0.77. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Microplastics (MPs) contaminate infant formulas. • Microplastics in baby food were identified by µ-Raman spectroscopy. • The average abundance of plastic particles in infant formulas was 42 ± 27 MPs/100 g. • The types of MPs with the largest content were PA (41.1 %), and PE (27.7 %) • Fibers and fragments were the most abundant types of MPs present in the samples. Microplastics (MPs) are plastic particles between 0.1 and 5,000 µm in size that can contaminate food. Unfortunately, to date, little attention has been paid to analyzing the presence of such particles in baby foods. The present study aimed to determine the degree of contamination of infant formula with MPs. A total of thirty products were subjected to analysis. The research methodology used included the isolation of plastic particles, identification and characterization of MPs using advanced microscopic and spectroscopic techniques. Microplastics were detected in all tested samples. The most frequently identified polymers were polyamide, polyethylene, polypropylene, and poly(ethylene terephthalate). The particles exhibited diverse forms, including fibers, fragments, and films, displaying a range of colors such as colorless, black, and brown particles. Furthermore, the daily intake of MPs by children fed exclusively infant formula was estimated to be approximately 49 ± 32 MPs. This poses a potential health risk for the youngest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A sandwich assay for β-lactoglobulin (β-LG) in infant food formula was developed. • Hierarchical antifouling capture probe and fluorescent recognition probe were used. • Capture probe selectively recognized β-LG and resisted nonspecific protein adhesion. • Recognition probe exhibited fluorescent signal upon interaction with β-LG by aptamer. • Promising detection performance in commercial food samples was achieved. Tracing the presence of allergenic β-lactoglobulin (β-Lg) in infant foods is an urgent need, but the interference from the protein-rich matrix often hampered the detection accuracy. Here, we developed a sandwich assay for β-Lg in infant food formula based on a hierarchically architectured antifouling capture probe and fluorescent recognition probe. The antifouling capture probe was constructed from the polydopamine-coated magnetic particles (Fe 3 O 4 @PDA), which was modified with repeated glutamic acid-lysine (EK) antifouling peptide and aptamer towards β-Lg. The spatial arrangement of these ligands on the Fe 3 O 4 @PDA surface was carefully tailored. Furthermore, a fluorescent recognition probe based on aptamer-modified silica-doped carbon quantum dot was developed to explore a sandwich assay for β-Lg with the capture probe. The sandwich assay was proved to have high potential in detecting β-Lg in commercially available infant food samples. The work provided a new approach to developing detection methods with matrix interference-resistant properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Development of an HRAMS method for plastic migrants from multilayer packaging. • Analysis of migrating chemicals in baby food and food simulants. • 39 of 42 identified potential migrants were NIAS. • Quantitation and toxicity classification of main migrants. Plastic multilayers are widely used for baby food packaging. However, it is important to consider that migration of food contact materials (FCM) into the baby food can occur. The comprehensive identification of potential migrants, including intentionally added substances (IAS) and non-intentionally added substances (NIAS), is required to assess the safety of these packaging materials. In this study, high resolution accurate mass spectrometry (HRAMS) with a data-independent acquisition method of sequential mass windows enables the detection of substances with corresponding deconvoluted fragment mass spectra. The identification of unexpected migrants present in the food simulants and in real baby food was facilitated by filtering strategies and by an in-house library. This approach has allowed the identification of 42 migrants, including eight NIAS detected for the first time. Two oligomers were quantified by means of reference standard materials at concentration levels above 0.010 mg/kg, exceeding the maximum residue levels for baby food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• HPLC ICP-MS and HPLC NAA have been applied in arsenic speciation analysis. • For As, HPLC NAA gives results with better accuracy than HPLC ICP-MS. • HPLC NAA could be complementary to HPLC ICP-MS in the speciation analysis. • HPLC NAA is valuable analytical tool in QC/QA in the speciation analysis. Arsenic and its inorganic species: As (III), As (V), dimethylarsenic acid (DMA) and monomethylarsenic acid (MMA) were determined in hypoallergenic formulas and grain porridges commercially available on Polish market, dedicated for infant 0–8 months. After quantitative extraction with 0.5% HNO 3 , separation of individual species was performed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and their determination by neutron activation analysis (NAA) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Due to relatively low content of As in the analysed samples, it was only possible to determine DMA using the HPLC-ICP-MS mode. HPLC separation coupled with off-line determination by NAA enabled the determination of more extracted As species (especially inorganic) with good accuracy. Certified reference material (CRM) Rice Flour SRM 1568b (NIST) was used for the validation of both procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Analysis of baby foods is a relevant approach for its health benefits. • Innovative strategies were compared for isolation of polyphenols from baby foods. • Attractive, promising and reliable alternatives to commonly used methods. • Unparalleled food sample and organic solvents usage, reducing the analysis cost. • Good results for selectivity, linearity, precision, accuracy and matrix effect. In this study, two different high-throughput microextraction techniques, microextraction by packed sorbents (MEPS) and micro solid phase extraction (μ-SPEed®), were evaluated and compared, regarding the performance criteria, for the isolation of polyphenols from baby foods prior to their determination by ultrahigh pressure liquid chromatography (UHPLC). To achieve the best performance, influential parameters affecting extraction efficiency (including type of sorbent, number of extraction cycles, pH, elution solvent and elution volume) were systematically studied and optimized. To enable an effective comparison, selectivity, linear dynamic range, method detection (LODs) and quantification limits (LOQs), accuracy, precision and extraction yields, were determined and discussed for both techniques. Both methods provided the analytical selectivity required for the analysis of polyphenols in baby foods. However, μ-SPEed® sample treatment in combination with UHPLC-PDA has demonstrated to be more sensitive, selective and efficient than MEPS. Appropriate linearity in solvent and matrix-based calibrations, very low LODs and LOQs, ranging between 1.37 and 13.57 μg kg−1 and 4.57 – 45.23 μg kg−1, respectively, suitable recoveries (from 67 to 97%) and precision (RSD values < 5%) were achieved for the selected analytes by μ-SPEed®/UHPLC-PDA. Finally, the validated methodologies were applied to different commercial baby foods. Gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, epicatechin, ferulic acid, rutin, naringenin and myricetin are the most dominant polyphenols present in the studied baby food samples. The proposed methodology revealed a promising approach to evaluate the nutritional quality of this kind of products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Natural radionuclides and 137Cs were determined in 25 commercially baby food. • The techniques were alpha, gamma, mass spectrometry and liquid scintillation. • The observed concentrations were within the range of the worldwide values. • 226Ra and 137Cs were below the detection limit. • The trend of the committed effective dose was: 210Po > 238U > 232Th. Abstract A set of measurements have been conducted to determine the activity-level of natural and artificial radionuclides in some baby foods commercialized in Italy. The measurements have been carried out using liquid scintillation, gamma, alpha and mass spectrometry. The activity concentrations ranged from 0.005 to 0.238, from 0.0082 to 1.65, from 0.0003 to 0.015 and from <13.6 to 233.3 Bq kg−1 for 210Po, 238U, 232Th and 40K respectively, whereas they are below the detection limit for 137Cs and 226Ra. The annual effective dose due to intake of 210Po, 238U, 232Th and 40K ranged from 280 and 800 μSv y−1 for infant 1 year old. These values lie well within the typical worldwide range of dose due to the ingestion of all natural radiation reported by UNSCEAR and they are below the internationally recommended level. This indicates that the baby food available in Italy would not pose any significant radiological impact to infant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • A new biosorbent for solid phase extraction is recommended. • Coprinus silvaticus was immobilized on multiwalled carbon nanotube. • Cu(II), Ni(II) and Pb(II) were preconcentrated. • The method was validated and applied to real samples. Abstract Preconcentrations of Cu(II), Ni(II) and Pb(II) ions by using Coprinus silvaticus immobilized multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) were investigated. Effects of important parameters on preconcentration procedure were examined. The best pH values of for Cu(II), Ni(II) and Pb(II) were found to be 6.0, 6.0 and 4.0, respectively. Flow rate of sample solution was 2.0 mL min−1, while desorption was achieved at 1.0 mL min−1 flow rate. Preconcentration factors were achieved as 60 for Cu(II), Ni(II) and 70 for Pb(II) (by dividing initial sample volume to final volume). LODs were calculated as 0.014, 0.016 and 0.093 ng mL−1, respectively for Cu(II), Ni(II) and Pb(II). Accuracy of the method was checked by applying to certified reference samples. Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer (ICP OES) was employed for measurements of Cu(II), Ni(II) and Pb(II) in digested baby food samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Extraction of tropane alkaloids with a solid-liquid extraction and online SPE method. • Analysis by MS-Orbitrap without chromatographic separation. • Validation of the methodology optimized. • Application in infant food samples finding a positive. Abstract Cereal based foods are a major part of the infant diet and they can be contaminated with Solanaceae and other plants containing tropane alkaloids. This study was focused on the optimisation of an extraction procedure based on a solid-liquid method and an online SPE system, directly coupled to different mass spectrometry analysers as Orbitrap and triple quadrupole (QqQ), removing the chromatographic separation step. Total running analysis time was 15.8 min (17.3 min in the QqQ system). The developed method was validated obtaining recoveries ranging from 66 to 98% and 68–97% for the Orbitrap and QqQ respectively (RSD lower than 14.3%) and limits of quantification from 0.5 to 5 µg kg-1 and 0.5–10 µg kg-1 for the QqQ and Orbitrap analyser respectively. The validated method was applied to several cereal based baby food samples, finding a positive sample containing atropine (11.5 µg kg-1), scopolamine (2.8 µg kg-1) and apoatropine (7.5 µg kg-1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The validation of a rapid, precise (RSD < 4.6%), reliable and sensitive (LOD = 0.026 µg/mL) liquid chromatography method for vitamin C quantification in foods (infant formulae, n = 4; follow-on formulae, n = 3; processed cereal based-foods, n = 7; and baby foods, n = 10) for infants and young children is described. Vitamin C content ranged from 1.50 to 144 mg/100 g. A comparison between the declared values and the measured concentrations, as well as the accordance of these values with the tolerances, was performed. For 50% of the analysed foods, the measured vitamin C content was higher than the declared value. However, all the analysed foods were in compliance with EU legislation concerning the maximum limits of vitamin C added to foods. The results obtained will be very useful for analytical laboratory control, risk assessment, establishment of maximum limits, development and implementation of guidelines regarding nutrient recommendations and estimation of vitamin C intake among infants and young children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study describes an optimisation and validation process on a method using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry to quantify furan in foods consumed mainly by infants and toddlers. The method that we developed allowed for low limits of quantification for liquid (1 µg kg −1 ) and solid (2 µg kg −1 ) samples. Our method was then applied to 134 food samples from the first French Total Diet Study on infants and toddlers. Furan was detected in 84% and quantified in 61% of the samples, at average lower and upper bound (LB/UB) concentrations ranging from 0 to 44 µg kg −1 . The sugar and sugar derivatives, milk, growth milk, infant formulae and “other hot beverages categories contained the lowest average content (LB/UB ≤ 1 µg kg −1 ) and breakfast cereals contained the highest (LB/UB = 44 µg kg −1 ). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review focuses on the most recent papers (from 2011 to submission date in 2017) dealing with the analysis of different organic components in foods (i.e. nucleobases, nucleosides, nucleotides, uric acid, and creatinine, amino acids and related compounds, choline-related compounds and phospholipids, carbohydrates, artificial sweeteners and polyphenolic compounds), using hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC) combined with different detection techniques. For each compound class, the investigated food matrices are grouped per: foods of animal origin, vegetables, fruits and related products, baby food, and other matrices such as drinks and mushrooms/fungi. Furthermore, the main advantages of HILIC chromatography respect to the other commonly used techniques are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A sensitive GC–MS method is reported for the determination of twelve polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in baby food. The sample preparation involves QuEChERS extraction combined with low-density solvent dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction (LDS-DLLME) and ultra-low temperature (−80 °C). Plackett–Burman screening design was employed to identify the main sample preparation variables that affect the extraction efficiency, such as the volume of toluene used in LDS-DLLME. The suitability of proposed method was verified by analytical selectivity, linearity in solvent and matrix-matched calibration curves and adequate recoveries (72–112%) and precision (RSD values ≤11%), under repeatability and within-laboratory reproducibility conditions. High analytical sensitivity was achieved for the monitoring of PAHs at the strict limit of 1 µg kg −1 fixed by the European Commission for baby foods. The validated method was applied to thirty-two commercial baby food samples, and the investigated PAHs were not detected in any sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Headspace-Solid Phase Microextraction–Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (HS-SPME–GC–MS) method was developed and validated for the simultaneous determination of furan, 2-methylfuran, 2-ethylfuran, 2-butylfuran, 2-pentylfuran, 2-acetylfuran, furfural and furfuryl alcohol in jarred baby food. The method was specific for the analytes. Good precision was obtained both in terms of intra-day repeatability (RSD ≤ 5.02) and inter-day precision (RSD ≤ 5.55%). The recovery values were between 98.42% and 99.8%. Linearity was established over two order of magnitude, and the achieved LODs and LOQs ranged between 0.018 and 0.035 ng/g and 0.060–0.117 ng/g, respectively, depending on the analyte. Finally, the method was successfully applied to investigate the content of furan and furan derivatives in several commercial baby food samples containing fruit or meat. The results showed that this simple, rapid and solvent free procedure could be used routinely for the analysis of baby food providing competent quantitative data functional to risk assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sn -2 fatty acid composition of 180 commercial infant, follow-on and growing-up formulas with three fat sources (plant oil, cows’ milk and goats’ milk) was investigated and compared with mature human milk (MHM). Sn -2 fatty acids in formulas were mostly dependent on fat source and stage. Compared with MHM, all types of formulas contained lower levels of palmitic acid (PA), saturated fatty acid and long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA), and higher levels of oleic acid (OA), linoleic acid (LA) and α -linolenic acid (LNA) at the sn -2 position. Even some formulas were supplemented with 1,3-dioleoyl-2-palmitoylglycerol, the proportions of relative PA at the sn -2 position in formulas were much lower than that in MHM. Moreover, formulas had higher proportions of relative OA, LA and LNA, and lower LC-PUFAs at the sn -2 position. This study indicated that there were significant differences in the positional distribution of fatty acids between formulas and MHM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• 3-MCPD exposure induced metabolic perturbation in a dose-dependent manner. • Unveiling the dynamic interactions between 3-MCPD, nutritional metabolites & peptides. • 3-MCPD suppressed the destabilization of α-lactalbumin and glycine amidinotransferase. • Significant health risks to endogenous 3-MCPD were assessed by infant foods. • 3-MCPD caused the nutritional deterioration of goat infant formulas quality. The potential mechanisms about the health risks of endogenous 3-MCPD remain elusive. Here, we researched the influences of 3-MCPD on the metabolic landscape of digested goat infant formulas via integrative UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS-MS/MS-based peptidomics and metabolomics (%RSDs ≤ 7.35 %, LOQ 2.99–58.77 μg kg−1). Digested goat infant formulas under 3-MCPD-interference caused metabolic perturbation by down-regulating levels of peptides VGINYWLAHK (5.98–0.72 mg kg−1) and HLMCLSWQ (3.25–0.72 mg kg−1) pertained to health-promoting bioactive components, and accelerated the down-regulation of non-essential amino acids (AAs, l -tyrosine 0.88–0.39 mg kg−1, glutamic acid 8.83–0.88 μg kg−1, and d -aspartic acid 2.93–0.43 μg kg−1), semi-essential AA (l -arginine 13.06–8.12 μg kg−1) and essential AAs (l -phenylalanine 0.49–0.05 mg kg−1) that provide nutritional value. Peptidomics and metabolomics interactions elucidated that 3-MCPD altered the stability of α-lactalbumin and d -aspartate oxidase in a dose-dependent manner, and affected the flavor perception of goat infant formulas, leading to a decline of nutritional value of goat infant formulas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work describes a method for the simultaneous determination of unmodified nucleosides and nucleotide mono-, di- and tri-phosphates by capillary electrophoresis coupled to mass spectrometry (CE-MS). The use of hexafluoro-2-propanol (HFIP) in the separation medium, and as an additive to the sheath liquid of the electrospray interface (ESI), generated a highly efficient and sensitive method. Instrumental limits of detection in the range of 14–53 ng mL −1 for nucleosides and 7–23, 20–49 and 64–124 ng mL −1 for nucleotide mono-, di-, and tri-phosphates, respectively, were found. Sample treatment involved diluting an aliquot of baby food with ultra-high quality water and applying centrifugation-assisted ultrafiltration (CUF). The proposed method was validated and used to analyse a variety of baby food samples (16 in total) such as fish, meat, fruits, and baby dairy desserts that may endogenously contain these analytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of salting-out assisted liquid–liquid extraction (SALLE) combined with ultra-high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC–MS/MS) has been evaluated for the determination of tetracyclines in infant foods based on meat and vegetables or in milk. To obtain satisfactory extraction efficiencies for the studied analytes, several parameters affecting the SALLE procedure were optimized. Analytical performances of the method were satisfactory, obtaining limits of quantification lower than 0.48 μg kg −1 in all cases. The precision, expressed as relative standard deviation (%, RSD) was below 11.3%. The extraction efficiency for fortified samples ranged from 89.2 to 96.8%, with RSDs lower than 7.3%. Matrix effect was evaluated for all samples studied, being lower than |21|% in all cases. In relation to the low solvent consumption, the proposed methodology could be considered rapid, cheap and environmentally friendly. Its applicability has been successfully tested in a wide range of infant foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to potential overages to cover losses during shelf life, the actual vitamin D concentration of fortified foods and dietary supplements may deviate from the label. In this pilot study the vitamin D concentrations of fortified foods (n = 29; follow-on formula, baby porridge, curd cheese dessert) and dietary supplements (n = 15), both specifically intended for infants, were analytically determined. Compared to the declared values, the vitamin D content ranged from 50% to 153% for fortified foods and from 8% to 177% for supplements. In general, both instant follow-on formula and oil-based supplements had a measured vitamin D content similar to or higher than the labelled value. Ready-to-eat baby porridge was the only category in which all measured vitamin D concentrations were below the declared value (74–81%). The use of label information for fortified foods and dietary supplements may result in invalid estimations of vitamin D intake distributions of infants; both under- and overestimation may occur. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic solid phase extraction (MSPE) with cobalt ferrite nanoparticles coated with oleic acid is described for the determination of alkylphenols (APs), 4-tert-butylphenol (TBP), 4-pentylphenol (PP), 4-hexylphenol (HP), 4-tert-octylphenol (TOP), 4-n-octylphenol (OP) and 4-nonylphenol (NP) in baby foods using gas chromatography with mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Prior to MSPE, the sample was treated with trichloroacetic acid, and the APs derivatized with acetic anhydride. Parameters affecting the extraction efficiency: amount of magnetic nanoparticles, extraction time and desorption conditions, were optimized. The enriched phase obtained was evaporated to dryness and the residue reconstituted in 50 μL of methanol, 1 μL of which was injected into the GC–MS. Samples were quantified applying matrix-matched calibration and using 2-chloro-5-bromoanisole as surrogate standard. The analysis of 0.5 g of sample provided detection limits in the 0.4–1.7 ng g −1 range. Some samples contained APs at levels of between 3 ng g −1 for HP and 122 ng g −1 for TOP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selective methodology employing a tandem quadrupole mass spectrometer coupled to a gas chromatograph with headspace autosampler (HS-GC–MS/MS) was elaborated in this study. Application of the elaborated procedure resulted in a limit of detection of 0.021 μg kg −1 and a limit of quantification of 0.071 μg kg −1 . The mean recoveries during in-house validation ranged from 89% to 109%, and coefficients of variation for repeatability ranged from 4% to 11%. The proposed analytical method was applied for monitoring the furan content of 30 commercial baby food samples available on the Latvian retail market. The level of furan found in these samples varied from 0.45 to 81.9 μg kg −1 , indicating that infants whose sole diet comprises baby food sold in jars and cans are exposed constantly to furan. Samples containing vegetables and meat had higher levels of furan than those containing only fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the aim to develop a new gas chromatography–mass spectrometry method to analyze 24 pesticide residues in baby foods at the level imposed by established regulation two simple, rapid and environmental-friendly sample preparation techniques based on QuEChERS (quick, easy, cheap, effective, robust and safe) were compared – QuEChERS with dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (DLLME) and QuEChERS with dispersive solid-phase extraction (d-SPE). Both sample preparation techniques achieved suitable performance criteria, including selectivity, linearity, acceptable recovery (70–120%) and precision (⩽20%). A higher enrichment factor was observed for DLLME and consequently better limits of detection and quantification were obtained. Nevertheless, d-SPE provided a more effective removal of matrix co-extractives from extracts than DLLME, which contributed to lower matrix effects. Twenty-two commercial fruit-based baby food samples were analyzed by the developed method, being procymidone detected in one sample at a level above the legal limit established by EU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work we propose a rapid and efficient method for the joint determination of nucleosides and nucleotides in dairy and non-dairy baby foods based on hydrophilic interaction chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry in the presence of diethylammonium (DEA) as a hydrophilic ion-pairing reagent (IP-HILIC-MS/MS). Sample treatment of the baby food included dilution with water and centrifugal ultrafiltration (CUF) with an additional washing step that notably improved the global performance of the process. Later dilution of the extract with acetonitrile allowed adequate separation in the HILIC system. With the proposed treatment, we obtained extraction recoveries higher than 80% and, additionally, no matrix effects were observed. The CUF-IP-HILIC-MS/MS method was validated according to the 2002/657/EC decision and was used for the quantification of nucleotides and nucleosides in sixteen samples of commercial baby foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The importance of dietary lipids during infancy is paramount for rapid growth and development. Linoleic acid (LA), α-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (AA) were quantified using RP-HPLC with charged aerosol detection in a range of complementary infant foods and formula milk. Total daily intake of fatty acids for infants aged 6–9 months was calculated based on the consumption of complementary infant foods and formula milk. Total daily intakes of ALA, AA and DHA were below, whereas LA was above the recommended intake. This provides scope for product optimisation, to improve the nutritive value of commercial infant food products. The impact of re-heating treatments by parents on fatty acid content of formula milk was investigated and statistically significant changes were observed. Furthermore, the transparency of the labelling information declared by the manufacturers was within recommendations despite a degree of significant variation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we report a simple and rapid solid phase extraction system for the separation/preconcentration and determination of Cd(II), Co(II), Cu(II), Fe(III), Cr(III), Pb(II), and Zn(II) ions by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). This method is based upon the retention of metal ions on a column packed with poly[N-(3-methyl-1 H -indole-1-yl)]-2-methacrylamide-co-2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propane sulphonic acid-co divinylbenzene] (MMAD) resin as a solid-phase extraction (SPE) sorbent at pH 8. At the optimized conditions, the limits of detection (3s/b) between 0.12 and 1.6 μg L −1 , preconcentration factor of 100, and the relative standard deviation of ⩽1.8% were achieved ( n = 10). The accuracy of the method was verified by analyzing certified reference materials (CRMs) and performing recovery experiments. The developed method was successfully applied to the various natural water, meat products and baby food samples. The recoveries of analyte ions were found in added real samples and CRMs from 95% to 102%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Commercial baby foods are an easy alternative to home-made meals especially for working parents in a nuclear family therefore it is imperative to determine the nitrate and nitrite content in commercially available baby foods varieties marketed in Fiji. A total of 108 baby food samples were analyzed for nitrate and nitrite using our standardized flow injection analysis (FIA) technique with colorimetric detection technique employing sulfanilamide and N-(1-naphthyl)ethylenediamine dihydrochloride as color reagents where the samples throughput was 38 h −1 . The commercial baby food varieties chosen comprised of vegetables, cereals, fruits and milk. The study shows that the nitrate content of the baby foods studied ranges from 2.10 to 220.67 mg kg −1 whereas the nitrite content ranges from 0.44 to 3.67 mg kg −1 . Typical recoveries of spiked nitrate residues ranged from 92% to 106%. The study shows that the average nitrate content of commercially available baby foods in Fiji descends below the maximum level proposed by the European Union Legislation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A QuEChERS (Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged and Safe) method was optimized and validated for the simultaneous extraction of 12 trichothecenes (type A and type B) from baby foods, followed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis. Using this methodology, limits of detection and quantification ranging from 0.37 to 19.19 μg/kg and 1.24 to 63.33 μg/kg, respectively, were achieved. Mean recoveries between 44% and 135% were obtained and repeatability, expressed as relative standard deviation, was always lower than 29%. A comparison between the developed method and two alternative cleanup procedures (MultiSep and IAC – immunoaffinity columns) was performed, being the advantages and drawbacks of each one presented. The screening of nine commercially available cereal-based baby foods revealed the presence of 4 out of 12 studied trichothecenes: DON (deoxynivalenol), 15AcDON (15-acetyl-deoxynivalenol), T2-Tetrol and NEO (Neosolaniol). DON was the most commonly found, being detected in 4 samples in significant levels (29–270 μg/kg), sometimes exceeding the maximum permitted level. 15AcDON, T2-Tetrol and NEO were found only in one sample each. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Commercial baby foods are an important part of the daily intake of babies from 6 to 12 months. The mineral profile of commercial baby foods in Spain was determined to establish levels of essential and non-essential elements, and their contribution to adequate intake (AI) and estimated average requirement (EAR). Thirty-five jars of commercial foods containing meat, fish, vegetables and fruit were obtained from the Spanish market and the mineral composition determined for 14 elements. In general, the baby foods analysed were sufficient for an adequate mineral intake, but contributions to AI and EAR for iron, zinc and calcium were very low (5–20%, 10–60% and 10–70%, respectively). This deficiency could be associated with growth problems or diseases in adulthood, and fortification of commercial products is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Validation of HRMS method for the screening of 204 pesticides in baby foods. • Impact of detection criteria thresholds on false negatives and false positives rates. • Impact of a PIL and different MS/MS algorithms for identification. • Unequivocal identification of a pesticide in two samples using targeted screening. • A flame retardant TCEP identified in two samples using suspect-screening approach. A screening method was developed for the multi-residue analysis of pesticides in baby foods using QuEChERS and UHPLC-Q-TOF. For sample preparation, the two-buffered versions of QuEChERS and different purification procedures were studied. False negatives and false positives were determined using different thresholds mentioned in the literature on the retention time and accurate mass measurement detection criteria. To reach unequivocal identification, the fragmentation spectra of the pesticides were used. The information-dependant-acquisition (IDA) mode was optimized with a precursor-inclusion list (PIL) to limit the loss of MS/MS data. Then, the experimental fragmentation spectra were compared to those included in a homemade library, by assessing different MS/MS algorithms and similarity scores. The optimised method was validated according to SANTE/11312/2021 guidelines. 95% and 73% of the pesticides presented a screening detection limit (SDL) and a limit of identification (LOI) ≤ 0.1 mg.kg −1. One plasticizer was found in the investigated samples by a suspect-screening approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Polyhydroxybutyrate-b-polyethyleneglycol was used for preconcentration of Cu and Pb. [•] The influences of analytical parameters have been investigated. [•] The enrichment factor 50 was achieved. [•] The method was applied for analysis of Cu and Pb in water and food samples. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] Inorganic arsenic was determined in long grain rice and rice-based baby food samples. [•] The inorganic arsenic intake from one source is close to the lowest BMDL0.1 value. [•] The cumulative intake assessment of inorganic arsenic is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We analyzed metabolites in breast colostrum (BC) and breast mature milk (BMM). • A total of 159 metabolites were characterized in BC and BMM. • 72 differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) were identified between BC and BMM. • We investigated the correlations and related metabolism pathways of these DEMs. • Our results provided insight into alterations in breast milk during lactation. Breast milk is the safest and most complete natural food for babies. Although breast milk is crucial to the health and development of infants, the metabolites in breast milk during lactation period have not been characterized. Therefore, we examined and compared the metabolites in breast colostrum and mature breast milk using gas chromatography-time-of-flight-mass spectrometry-based metabolomics. A total of 159 metabolites were characterized, of which 72 were differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs), including 17 upregulated and 55 downregulated DEMs in breast colostrum compared to those in mature breast milk. Metabolic pathway analysis revealed that these DEMs were related to glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism; glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism; alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism; pentose and glucuronate interconversions; and aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis. Our results improve the understanding of breast milk composition and provide a theoretical basis for optimizing infant formula to closely imitate the nutrients required for proper growth and development of babies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The contents of trace elements in baby purees and juices were investigated. • The lead concentration was detected in the range from nd to 0.21 µg/kg. • ADDs of Pb for infants and toddlers were in accordance with EFSA estimated ranges. • All HIs for infants and toddlers were below or slightly above the acceptable limit. • Studied product types were divided into three groups applying statistical analyses. The study aimed to analyze trace elements content in baby purees and fruit juices and to evaluate the health risk of young children. The average daily dose, hazard quotient, hazard index and total diet hazard quotient were calculated to assess the potential health risk on per capita and consumers only groups of infants and toddlers. There was no significant health risk for studied groups regarding the intake of trace elements via purees and juices consumption. Health risk for lead was not estimated since the oral reference dose for this metal was not yet established and PTWI value was withdrawn. The average daily dose of lead for infants (0.32 – 0.46 µg/kg bw/day) and toddlers (2.01 – 2.29 µg/kg bw/day) were in accordance with the daily lead exposure intervals estimated by EFSA. Applying statistical analysis, the products were classified into three groups according to the content of trace elements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Cyclopentenone was formed in sterilized vegetable- and fruit-based baby food. • Cyclopentenone (DHCP) showed high reactivity with selected amino acids. • DHCP forms covalent adducts with cysteine, histidine and glutathione. • Identification of DHCP in heat-treated foods is difficult due to the adducts. The formation of the molecule 4,5-dihydroxy-2-cyclopenten-1-one (DHCP) from the thermal treatment of pectin-containing foods was investigated in small-scale laboratory preparation of sterilized vegetable puree (carrot, zucchini and tomato) and fruit puree (peach and mixture of pear and apple) and in commercial baby foods. DHCP attracts attention due to its cytotoxicity as well as potential antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects. However, its effects and the difficulty of its identification in food are mediated in part by the formation of Michael adducts of DHCP with amino acids. The results revealed that DHCP reacted efficiently with cysteine and glutathione, and to a lesser extent with histidine. Mass spectrometry analysis confirmed the formation of adducts of DHCP with amino acids in a model system, being in a real food system difficult to investigate. However, these formed adducts are of potential interest, although it is not known whether they are safe, bioactive or reversible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] A new simple and easy-to-use dynamic digestion system has been developed. [•] It has been successfully applied to investigate infant formula digestion. [•] The system has been validated towards in vivo data obtained on piglets. [•] Whey proteins exhibited a longer persistence in the stomach than caseins. [•] Caseins were shown to be extensively hydrolyzed in the stomach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Dissipation kinetics of fungicides in apples intended for baby food was studied. [•] Fluquinconazole and pyrimethanil were applied to control apple scab. [•] Fungicide residue analysis was carried out by a validated and accredited method. [•] Half-life values and other disappearance kinetics parameters were established. [•] In 2–3months residue concentrations dropped below the baby food MRL of 0.01mg/kg. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: An assay for the simultaneous quantitative determination of riboflavin and pyridoxine in eight different complementary infant meal products has been developed in order to (1) estimate the daily intake of these vitamins from commercial infant food consumption, and (2) ascertain their nutritional suitability relative to dietary guidelines for the 6–9months age group. The method involves mild hydrolysis of the foods, an extraction of the supernatant by centrifugation followed by quantitative determination using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography. Separation of the two water soluble vitamins is achieved within one minute and the resultant sample is also LC–MS compatible. Despite wide individual differences between brands (p =6.5e-12), no significant differences were observed in the level of pyridoxine between the meat and vegetable-based varieties (p =0.7) per 100g of commercial infant food. Riboflavin was not detected in any of the samples where the detection limit was below 0.07μg/mL. In terms of the Reference Nutrient Intake (RNI) of pyridoxine for 6–9months old infants, the complementary infant meal products analysed herein provided less than 15% of the RNI values with mean (SD) values of 12.87 (±4.46)% and 13.88 (±4.97)% for the meat- and vegetable-based recipes, respectively. The estimated total daily intake of riboflavin and pyridoxine from the consumption of commercial complementary food was found to be satisfactory and in accordance with the Dietary Reference Values (DRVs). The intake of both riboflavin and pyridoxine was estimated to be mainly derived from the consumption of formula milk which could be a cause of concern if the quality of an infant’s milk diet is compromised by an inadequate or lack of supplemented milk intake. The results of this study suggest that the selected commercial complementary infant foods in the UK market may not contain the minimum levels of riboflavin and pyridoxine required for the labelling declaration of the micronutrient content of such products as recommended by Commission Directive 2006/125/EC. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The study reported herein was conducted in order to establish the concentration of 20 essential and non-essential elements in a representative range of commercial infant foods in the UK targeted for infants aged between 6–12months. The primary objective of this study was to examine the nutritive values and safety of such complementary infant foods on the UK market in relation to dietary and safety guidelines. Quantitative analyses were conducted on eight different products representing four popular brands (poultry and fish based) of ready to-feed infant foods currently on sale in the UK. Six essential elements, namely: calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, sodium and zinc were determined by ICP-OES. The concentrations of six essential trace elements (selenium, molybdenum, cobalt, copper, chromium, manganese) and eight non-essential, potentially toxic, elements (arsenic, barium, nickel, cadmium, antimony, lead, mercury, aluminium) were determined by ICP-MS due to the higher sensitivity required. The total daily intakes of essential and trace elements from the consumption of such products were then estimated, based on the results of this study, and were referenced to the Recommended Nutrient Intake (RNI) values and safety guidelines for 6–9months old children. Based on these comparisons the concentration of essential, except for potassium, and trace elements were found to be inadequate in meeting the RNI. In terms of the risk of exposure to toxicity, the concentration of toxic elements in ready to feed products analysed in this study, were not considered to be of concern. These results suggest that commercial complementary infant foods on the UK market may not contain minimum levels of minerals required for labelling declaration of micronutrient content (Commission Directive 2006/125/EC). This provides opportunities and scope for product optimisation to improve their nutritive value. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Current European Commission Directives on foods for infants and young children places emphasis on the control of pesticide residues at levels below 10μgkg−1. In the present work, a liquid chromatography electrospray ionisation ion trap tandem mass spectrometry (LC–Ion Trap-MS/MS) has been developed for the multiresidue of 10 multiclass fungicides (carbendazim, thiabendazole, imazalil, tridemorph, triadimefon, bitertanol, prochloraz, flutriafol, myclobutanil and diphenylamine) in fruit-based baby food. The developed method is based on a simple sample treatment (QuEChERS), which consists of a liquid–liquid extraction using acetonitrile, followed by a clean-up step based on dispersive solid-phase extraction with primary secondary amine (PSA). Subsequent identification and quantitation was accomplished by liquid chromatography/electrospray tandem mass spectrometry using an ion-trap mass spectrometer in the product ion scan MS/MS mode. Matrix effects were evaluated in LC–MS and LC–MS/MS mode experiments, obtaining a reduction of these effects when working in MS/MS mode for most of the analytes. Limits of detection (LOD) were between 0.5 and 3.0μgkg−1 depending on the pesticide studied, all being within European Union regulations for baby food. Finally, the proposed method was applied to 25 baby food samples obtained from local supermarkets. Imazalil, thiabendazole and carbendazim were detected in the studied samples. However, none of the samples tested were found to be upper the EU standard. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A simple and rapid multiresidue method for the determination of different veterinary drug residues in meat-based baby food (MBF) and powdered milk-based infant formulae (PMIF) has been developed. The method involves an extraction procedure based on buffered QuEChERS (quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged and safe) methodology, without any further clean-up step, followed by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). The method has been validated in two baby food matrices (MBF and PMIF) at three different concentration levels, obtaining suitable recoveries and precision (inter and intra-day precision) values. Quantification was carried out using matrix-matched standard calibration. Furthermore, the decision limit (CCα) and the decision capability (CCβ) were evaluated, ranging from 0.5 to 16.2μg/kg and from 1.2 to 22.4μg/kg, respectively. Finally, the method was applied to the analysis of several kinds of baby food samples and traces of some veterinary drugs were detected. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The feasibility for producing a matrix reference material for selected pesticides in a carrot/potato matrix was investigated. A commercially available baby food (carrot/potato-based mash) was spiked with 11 pesticides at the respective EU maximum residue limits (MRLs), and further processed by either freezing or freeze-drying. Batches of some 150units were produced per material type. First, the materials were assessed for the relative amount of pesticide recovered after processing (ratio of pesticide concentration in the processed material to the initially spiked pesticide concentration). In addition, the materials’ homogeneity (bottle-to-bottle variation), and the short-term (1month) and mid-term (5months) stability at different temperatures were assessed. For this, an in-house validated GC–EI-MS method operated in the SIM mode with a sample preparation procedure based on the QuEChERS (“quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe”) principle was applied. Measurements on the frozen material provided the most promising results (smallest analyte losses during production), and also freeze-drying proved to be a suitable alternative processing technique for most of the investigated pesticides. Both the frozen and the freeze-dried material showed to be sufficiently homogeneous for the intended use, and storage at −20°C for 5months did not reveal any detectable material degradation. The results constitute an important step towards the development of a pesticide matrix reference material. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Three low-fatty baby food matrices were fortified with 0.01–0.2mg/kg of phorate, diazinon, chlorpyrifos and methidathion. A “quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged and safe” – like method (QuEChERS) was used. Quantities of octadecyl (C18) sorbent differed with fortification level and matrix fat, based on central composite experimental design. Quantification was performed by Nitrogen–Phosphorus Detector gas chromatography, using matrix-matched standards. The highest (p <0.05) recoveries were observed for methidathion, the lowest fortification levels for a specific C18 amount and the lowest C18 amounts. In meals containing vegetables (1.9% fat) and lamb (3.0% fat), 180–210mg C18 gave recoveries from 67.0% to 105.0% and absence of co-extracts. Yogurt dessert (4.5% fat) required 200–230mg C18 for similar results. Recoveries could also be predicted with <20% error by a polynomial model. The results suggest that modified QuEChERS could be effectively used in the low-fatty baby meals residue analysis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: There is a paucity of data in respect of the nutritional quality of complementary foods for infants and young children aged between 6 and 12months. The primary objective of this study was to examine nutritive values of such complementary infant food on the UK market in order to ascertain their suitability relative to dietary guidelines for the 6–9months age group. Quantitative analyses were conducted on eight different products representing four popular brands (meat and vegetable based) currently on sale in the UK. Eight major mineral and trace elements, namely: calcium, copper, magnesium, iron, zinc, potassium, sodium and selenium were measured by ICP–OES and ICP–MS. The results of these studies were referenced to the Recommended Nutrient Intake (RNI) values for 6–9months old children, and a menu of entire daily intake of minerals and trace elements was composed taking into consideration the nutrient and energy intake from milk consumption. Based on these comparisons, all the food samples studied in this work contained less essential minerals than expected from the RNI values except for potassium in meat and vegetable based recipes. These results suggest that commercial complementary infant foods on the UK market may not contain the minimum levels of minerals required for the labelling declaration of micronutrient content (Commission Directive 2006/125/EC). This provides opportunities and scope for product optimisation to improve their nutritive value. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: According to the current EU legislation, the presence of antimicrobial residues in baby foods is forbidden. Nevertheless, there is a lack of analytical methods to determine veterinary antimicrobials in baby foods and support the zero tolerance policy for this type of foods. This paper describes a simple method based on molecularly imprinted solid phase extraction (MISPE) and liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection (LC-FLD) for the determination of residues of fluoroquinolones (FQs) in baby foods. The method involves sample extraction with a solution of o-phosphoric acid (50mM, pH 3.0)/ACN (20:80, v/v) and further clean-up by loading the extracts onto MIP cartridges. Optimum MISPE conditions led to recoveries of the target FQs in the range of 92–106%, with RSDs <8%. Method validation has been performed according to Commission Decision 2002/657/EC, in terms of linearity, accuracy, precision, selectivity, decision limit (CCα) and detection capability (CCβ). The proposed method has been successfully applied to the analysis of baby foods of different compositions bought in local supermarkets and pharmacies. The results did not show the presence of residual amounts of FQs in the analysed samples above the method’s decision limits (CCα between 5 and 151μgkg−1). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This study assessed concentrations in and intake of toxic and essential elements from formulas and foods intended for infants during their first 6months of life. Concentrations of the essential elements Ca, Fe, Zn, Mn and Mo were significantly higher in most formulas than in breast milk. Daily intake of Mn from formula varies from ten up to several hundred times the intake of the breast fed infant, levels that may be associated with adverse health effects. One portion of infant food provided significantly more Fe, Mn, Mo, As, Cd, Pb and U than one feeding of breast milk, but less Ca, Cu and Se. Rice-based products in particular contained elevated As concentrations. Drinking water used to mix powdered formula may add significantly to the concentrations in the ready-made products. Evaluation of potentially adverse effects of the elevated element concentrations in infant formulas and foods are warranted. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this work, a method has been developed for the ultrasensitive and selective determination of various regulated mycotoxins (aflatoxins G1, G2, B1, B2, M1, and ochratoxin A) in baby food commodities and milk, using ultra high pressure liquid chromatography (UHPLC) coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS). The high sensitivity required for these compounds made necessary the application of a pre-concentration step based on solid phase extraction with immunoaffinity columns, after sample extraction with acetonitrile:water (80:20). Thanks to the fast high-resolution of UHPLC and the enhanced selectivity obtained with the triple quadrupole mass analyser in SRM mode, the chromatographic separation was achieved in only 4min. Validation of the method was carried out in four different matrices (cereals infant formula, powdered milk for babies, milk with cereals for infants, and raw milk) by recovery experiments, using samples spiked at 0.025 and 0.1μgkg−1 in quintuplicate. Satisfactory recoveries, between 80% and 110%, with RSDs lower than 15%, were obtained in all food matrices tested. Quantification was performed by external calibration with standards in solvent. The developed method has been applied to the analysis of samples collected from local markets. Positive findings were confirmed by acquiring two transitions (Q quantification, q confirmation) and evaluating their Q/q ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]