Cassava-based materials for matrix solid phase dispersion: An alternative for sample preparation in food analysis

Area of Science:

• Food Chemistry
• Analytical Chemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Matrix solid phase dispersion (MSPD) is a crucial sample preparation technique.
• Conventional MSPD materials can be expensive and environmentally impactful.
• There is a need for sustainable and cost-effective alternatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate cassava-based ingredients as novel materials for MSPD.
• To compare their performance against traditional and commercial solid phases.
• To assess their suitability for analyzing various analytes in diverse food matrices.

Main Methods:

• Cassava starch, tapioca, and tapioca pearls were tested as MSPD materials.
• Sample preparation was performed on mussels, fish, ham, sausages, and animal feed.
• Analytes included pharmaceuticals, preservatives, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
• Analyses were conducted using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and capillary electrophoresis.
• Performance was evaluated based on fat removal, accuracy, interferents, and signal response.

Main Results:

• Cassava starch demonstrated excellent performance across most assays.
• Cellulose provided superior results for nitrite and nitrate analysis.
• Cassava-based materials showed adequate matrix dispersion, confirmed by electron microscopy.
• These materials offer a cheaper, greener, and abundant alternative to current MSPD phases.

Conclusions:

• Cassava-based solid phases are suitable and effective for MSPD.
• They present a sustainable and economical option for food sample preparation.
• This research supports the use of agricultural byproducts in analytical chemistry.