A very simple and sensitive pelargonic acid based liquid phase microextraction of erythrosine from food and water...

This research presents a novel, eco-friendly methodology for the separation and preconcentration of erythrosine (ERT) in food and water matrices via pelargonic acid liquid-phase microextraction (PA-LPME). In contrast to traditional solvent systems, which often utilize complex mixtures such as supramolecular or deep eutectic solvents, pelargonic acid is employed as a single component extractant, enhancing the method's sustainability and simplicity. The PA-LPME technique is characterized by its efficiency, precision, and environmental compatibility. Through systematic optimization of key parameters including pelargonic acid volume, pH, sample volume, and centrifugation and vortexing times, the method achieved superior analytical performance, evidenced by a broad linear detection range (0.005-0.5 µg mL^-1), a low limit of detection (1.4 µg L^-1, 1.2 µg L^-1), and a high preconcentration factor (50). These optimized conditions facilitate the robust extraction and quantification of ERT in diverse food and water samples, positioning PA-LPME as a rapid, reliable, and green alternative for ERT determination.