A Simple Analysis of 4-Methylimidzaole using Automated Solid Phase Extraction and High Performance Liquid Chromatography with MS/MS and MS/SIM Detection

The compound 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI) is formed as a byproduct in some foods and beverages. Caramel coloring Type III and Type IV in beverages is one of the ingredients which may contain 4-MEI. Products that potentially contain 4-MEI include certain colas, beers, soy sauces, breads, coffee, ammoniated livestock feed and other products. There has been an increase in concern lately about 4-MEI being a suspected carcinogen. In this application note, 4-Methylimidzaole is measured using HPLC with mass spectrometric detection.