GC-MS/MS–Based Multi-Residue Determination of Pesticides in Difficult Matrices

Introduction There are many analytical challenges encountered with the extraction and quantification of pesticide residues in difficult sample matrices such as tuber crops, like yam (Dioscorea spp.), taro (Colocasia esculenta) and sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.). In our experience, a workflow solution based on extraction using the accelerated solvent extraction technique, followed by determination using gas chromatography-triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS), can provide fast and efficient solvent extraction and accurate quantification and identification of analytes, for these difficult matrices. This summary describes the challenges and successes in the development, validation and implementation of methods, based on the accelerated solvent extraction technique prior to GC-MS/MS analysis of pesticides in tuber crops. The analysis of herbal juices (Amla and Aloe Vera) using the Quick Easy Cheap, Effective and Rugged (QuEChERS) approach is also discussed.