Analysis of underivatizated patulin by a GC-MS technique

An alternative approach based on the use of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) is used to confirm the presence of patulin in apple juice. In the gas chromatography (GC) methods previously described, derivatization of patulin was always necessary in order to achieve good chromatographic detection. The use of electronic pressure control (EPC) and on-column injection avoids the need for patulin derivatization and allows a sensitive analysis of patulin. A detection limit of 4 microg/liter in apple juice can be attributed to the method.