New matrix certified reference material for accurate measurement of ciprofloxacin residue in egg

Matrix certified reference materials (CRMs) are an indispensable part of method validation and have played an important role in ensuring reliable analytical results. To retain similarity to real samples, a new matrix CRM for the mass fraction of ciprofloxacin in whole liquid egg was developed by use of incurred materials with a target value corresponding to residue levels in real sample. The source materials were collected from laying hens following oral administration of ciprofloxacin. An optimized homogenization method and a strict bottling process were applied to bulk whole egg materials to prepare the CRM candidate. The mass fraction of ciprofloxacin in whole liquid egg was certified by a collaborative characterization program with eight accredited participating laboratories. Liquid chromatography coupled with isotope dilution mass spectrometry was studied as a reliable reference method for value assignment and was used by all participating laboratories. The certified value and expanded uncertainty (k = 2, at a confidence level of 95%) was 39.7 ± 5.2 μg/kg for ciprofloxacin in whole liquid egg. Homogeneity, long-term stability at -70 °C for 12 months, and short-term stability at -18 °C, 4 °C, and room temperature were assessed for 9 days. Additionally, uncertainties arising from inhomogeneity, instability, and characterization were analyzed in detail and fully estimated. This CRM would be a useful tool for validation of analytical methods and proficiency testing in ciprofloxacin residue analysis of egg. Graphical Abstract.