Overcoming the Challenges of Analysing Ionic Polar Pesticides in Food

Glyphosate, a non-selective broad spectrum herbicide, accounts for more than half of global herbicide sales. While discussions on the toxicological concerns of glyphosate and associated compounds continue, maximum residue limits (MRLs) are enforced globally, requiring continued analytical testing to ensure consumer safety. In previous work, various methodologies have been presented, looking at underivatised options for the direct analysis of polar pesticides in food. [Scan the QR code below to discover more] Here, the novel application of the Waters’ Torus DEA column is presented, showing the improved performance of a UPLC-MS/MS method for the underivatised analysis of glyphosate and a selection of other anionic pesticides. Separation is achieved under Hydrophilic Interaction Chromatography (HILIC), after a simple column conditioning to activate the mechanism. Preliminary method performance, in the absence of isotopically labelled internal standard is summarised, in accordance with relevant SANTE 11945/2015 guidelines.