New Generation of Pesticide Analytics for Food and Dietary Supplements

The requirements for pesticide analysis in food and dietary supplements are continuously increasing, both analytically and regulatorily. A growing number of substances requiring testing, changing residue definitions, stricter maximum residue limits (MRLs) and the resulting lower limits of quantification present modern pesticide laboratories with significant challenges.

With our new multi-pesticide method “Pesticides GC/LC Multi NextGen,” we address these increased requirements using the latest state of the art: powerful, robust and future-proof.

The method is based on the established QuEChERS method according to ASU L 00.00-115 (DIN EN 15662), which we have consistently developed further and adapted to current requirements.

Active substance determination via GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS is thus carried out from a standardized method covering the complete substance spectrum.

Why a new method?

Compared to existing procedures, the new method offers significantly improved analytical quality and higher reliability. In addition to a fundamental expansion of the analyte spectrum, additional substances have been integrated that were previously determined using separate individual or group methods. The integration of these additional substances represents a significant advancement for our customers. As a result, they benefit from a more comprehensive overview and increased certainty at a glance.

Through the use of state-of-the-art GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS technology, we achieve low limits of quantification at the current state of knowledge and technology despite a significantly expanded range of active substances. This enables a more well-founded risk assessment, particularly against the backdrop of decreasing maximum residue levels, including in the organic sector.

At the same time, the method accounts for increased regulatory requirements: numerous relevant metabolites and other substances are now an integral part of residue definitions under Regulation (EU) No. 396/2005 and are accordingly comprehensively covered.

Performance Characteristics of the New Method:

1. Broad Analyte Spectrum: More Than 850 Substances

The analysis spectrum will in future cover more than 850 substances. Analytes that previously could only be captured through separate measurements have also been newly included. Relevant metabolites, esters and salts are covered to a large extent in accordance with current residue definitions under Regulation (EU) 396/2005.

2. Lower Limits of Quantification for Most Matrices

Through the use of modern GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS technology with highly selective multiple MRM detection, the method achieves lower limits of quantification than before for some active substances in most food matrices.

The increased selectivity also leads to higher analytical reliability.

Detailed performance data is documented in the corresponding data sheet and available upon request.

3. High Stability for Demanding Matrices

Extracts and dietary supplements are among the most analytically demanding matrices. The method was specifically validated for these product groups and delivers stable, reproducible results as well as reliable quantification, even with complex, matrix-rich samples.

4. Future-Proof Expandability

A key advantage of the method lies in its pronounced flexibility: substance lists can be expanded subsequently and regulatory changes can be integrated without fundamental methodological modifications. This significantly reduces the effort required to adapt to changing requirements and enables a timely response to regulatory developments. This high degree of flexibility is of central importance against the backdrop of dynamic regulatory frameworks.

Validation and Accreditation

The method was validated in accordance with ICH Q2(R2) as well as the guidance Document Nº SANTE/11312/2021v2026, the currently authoritative international standard for pesticide analysis in food and feed. The validation covers both typical and particularly demanding food matrices. Limits of quantification were determined in accordance with SANTE through spiking experiments in complex matrices rather than through extrapolation from standard measurements.

The validation data and performance capability are continuously supplemented through performance assessments in routine operation, participation in interlaboratory comparison studies and regular testing of suitable reference materials. The method is part of PhytoLab’s flexible accreditation under ISO 17025.

Conclusion: A Modern Standard in Pesticide Analytics

Pesticide analysis is becoming increasingly complex: substance lists are growing, requirements for detection sensitivity are rising, and regulatory specifications are becoming more precise.

Our new method is the consistent answer to this, with an expanded analyte spectrum, low limits of quantification in most matrices and validation according to the current state of relevant guidelines.

With “Pesticides GC/LC Multi NextGen,” you have access to a powerful solution to meet both current and future requirements in residue analysis.

Further Information

Request the data sheet or learn more:
Write to us at ordermanagement@phytolab.com
We will get back to you within one business day.