Fast Multi-Residue Pesticide Analysis Using Triple Quadrupole GC-MS/MS

This application note provides the analytical methodology for a fast multi-residue pesticide determination using the unique capabilities of the Thermo Scientific TSQ Quantum™ GC triple quadrupole mass spectrometer for quantitation and confirmation of positive results. International regulations on the maximum residue levels of pesticides in food (MRLs) cover hundreds of individual components at very low maximum residue limits – in the range of 10 ppb or lower. Currently, more than 300 regulated pesticides can be analyzed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) while a large group of highly polar pesticides is covered by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) methods. GC/MS analysis of that many pesticides at the MRL becomes an increasing challenge for quality and governmental control strategies.