Determination of carbendazim residues in fruit juices by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry

Abstract

In this paper a rapid optimized method for routine analysis of carbendazim residues in fruit juices is reported. The procedure is based on matrix solid-phase dispersion (MSPD) with diatomaceous earth and analysis of the extract by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, with electrospray ionization (LC–ESI-MS/MS). In the method optimization, finding of the optimal pH for the extraction of carbendazim from juice was particularly critical. Significant matrix effects were observed, but could be eliminated using matrix-matched standards. High recoveries (82–102%), good repeatability (RSD ≤ 12%) and low limits of detection (0.03 ng ml⁻¹) and quantification (0.1 ng ml⁻¹) were achieved with this method.

Keywords:

• Carbendazim
• fruit juice
• MSPD
• LC–MS/MS
• ion trap
• matrix effect