Determination of Patulin in Processed Foods Using QuEChERS Extraction and UHPLC-MS/MS Analysis

Patulin is a naturally occurring mycotoxin that is produced by several species of fungi, such as Aspergillus, Penicillium and Byssochlamys. It typically grows on fruit, including apples, pears, peaches and grapes, but has also been reported in vegetables and cereal grains. Patulin has been implicated as a possible carcinogen and teratogen, although an official designation has not yet been made. The main risk arises when unsound fruit is used for the production of juices and other processed food products. This application note outlines a QuEChERS procedure for the detection of patulin in processed food products.