Development of reference materials for paralytic shellfish poisoning toxins

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Food Safety
• Marine Biotoxins

Background:

• Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) poses a significant risk to public health.
• Accurate quantification of causative toxins, saxitoxin and decarbamoyl-saxitoxin, is crucial for monitoring shellfish.
• A need existed for reliable reference materials to validate analytical methods for PSP toxins.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and certify mussel reference materials for saxitoxin and decarbamoyl-saxitoxin.
• To improve analytical methodologies for PSP toxin detection.
• To establish homogeneous and stable reference materials for interlaboratory comparisons.

Main Methods:

• Procurement and characterization of saxitoxin and decarbamoyl-saxitoxin calibrants.
• Enhancement of analytical techniques for PSP toxin determination.
• Preparation and rigorous testing (homogeneity, stability) of lyophilized mussel materials and a toxin enrichment solution.
• Conducting two interlaboratory studies and a certification exercise involving fifteen European laboratories.

Main Results:

• Three certified reference materials were successfully produced: CRM 542 (mussel with PSP toxins), CRM 543 (mussel without PSP toxins), and CRM 663 (saxitoxin enrichment solution).
• CRM 542 certified values: <0.07 mg/kg saxitoxin, 1.59 ± 0.20 mg/kg decarbamoyl-saxitoxin.
• CRM 543 certified values: <0.07 mg/kg saxitoxin, <0.04 mg/kg decarbamoyl-saxitoxin. CRM 663 certified value: 9.8 ± 1.2 µg/g saxitoxin.

Conclusions:

• The project successfully delivered homogeneous and stable mussel reference materials and a saxitoxin enrichment solution.
• These certified reference materials are essential for accurate and reliable quantification of saxitoxin and decarbamoyl-saxitoxin in shellfish.
• The developed materials will enhance the quality control of PSP toxin testing, contributing to improved food safety and public health protection.