Determination of Common Beta-Agonist Residues in Meat Products by UPLC-MS/MS

IN T RODUC T ION Beta-agonists, or β2-adrenergic agonists are, often used as drugs to treat asthma and other pulmonary diseases. They act on the β2-adrenergic receptor and cause smooth muscle relaxation, resulting in the dilation of bronchial passages and other effects. However, some beta agonists have been used illegally in meat husbandry, since they can also promote muscle growth instead of fat growth in animals, thereby increasing weight gain, enlargement of the ribeye area, and, therefore, additional total red meat yield. Consumption of beta-agonist contaminated meat has caused food poisoning incidents, and many countries and regions have banned its use for meat production. Clenbuterol, ractopamine, and salbutamol are commonly used beta-agonists. In China, clenbuterol, salbutamol, and ractopamine are prohibited for use in food-producing animals, and their presence in meat products is illegal. Figure 1 shows these three compound structures.