AOAC Official Method 2007.01 with 1 mL of 1% acetic acid (HOAc) in MeCN and 0.

5 g anhydrous
Pesticide Residues in Foods by Acetonitrile MgSO4/NaOAc (4/1, w/w) per g sample are added to a centrifuge
Extraction and Partitioning with Magnesium Sulfate
tube or bottle, which is shaken and centrifuged. A portion of the
Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry and
Liquid Chromatography/Tandem Mass Spectrometry MeCN extract (upper layer) is added to anhydrous MgSO4/PSA
First Action 2007 sorbent (3/1, w/w; 200 mg per 1 mL extract), mixed, and
[Applicable for the following pesticides in grapes, lettuces, and centrifuged. This final extract is transferred to autosampler vials for
oranges: atrazine, azoxystrobin, bifenthrin, carbaryl, chlorothalonil, analysis by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and
chlorpyrifos, chlorpyrifos-methyl, l-cyhalothrin (incurred in liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) to
lettuces), cyprodinil, o,p-DDD, dichlorvos, endosulfan sulfate,
identify and determine a wide range of pesticide residues. To
ethion (inc urred in oranges), imazalil , imidaclopri d,
kresoxim-methyl (incurred in grapes), linuron, methamidophos, achieve <10 ng/g detection limits in modern GC/MS, large volume
methomyl, permethrins (incurred in lettuces) procymidone, injection (LVI) of 8 mL is typically needed, or the final extract can be
pymetrozine, tebuconazole, thiabendazole (incurred in oranges), concentrated and solvent exchanged to toluene (4 g/mL), in which
tolylfluanid (degraded in lettuces), and trifluralin. These were
case 2 mL splitless injection is used.
representative pesticide analytes chosen in representative matrixes,
and the method is expected to be applicable to many other similar Both GC/MS and LC/MS/MS techniques are prone to matrix
pesticides and matrixes. Limits of quantitation were demonstrated
effects in pesticide residue analysis, albeit for different reasons
to be <10 ng/g.]
[Erney, D.R., Gillespie, A.M., Gilvydis, D.M., & Poole, C.F. (1993)
See Tables 2007.01AE for the results of the interlaboratory J. Chromatogr. 638, 5763; Hajslova, J., & Zrostlikova, J. (2003) J.
study supporting acceptance of the method. Chromatogr. A 1000, 181197; Alder, L., Luderitz, S., Lindtner, K.,
A. Principle & Stan, H.J. (2004) J. Chromatogr. A 1058, 6779]. To account for
these effects, matrix-matched calibration was conducted
The QuEChERS (quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe) (calibration standards in solvent solution may also be used if matrix
method uses a single-step buffered acetonitrile (MeCN) extraction effects are shown not to occur). Due to the situation that some
and salting out liquidliquid partitioning from the water in the laboratories had LVI capability and others did not, the necessary
sample with MgSO 4 . Dispersive-solid-phase extraction amounts of matrix blank(s) and final extract volume was different
(dispersive-SPE) cleanup is done to remove organic acids, excess for some laboratories than others. Depending on the water content of
the matrix, a 15 g sample typically yields 1114 mL of initial MeCN
water, and other components with a combination of primary
extract after centrifugation. In dispersive-SPE, roughly half of the
secondary amine (PSA) sorbent and MgSO4; then the extracts are
extract is lost to the powders, thus about 67 mL of final extract can
analyzed by mass spectrometry (MS) techniques after a be expected for a 15 g sample. Two options were provided in the
chromatographic analytical separation. Figure 2007.01 outlines the protocol to account for the different situations among the
protocol in a box format. In brief, a well-chopped food sample along laboratories.

Table 2007.01A. Interlaboratory study results for incurred pesticides (and chlorpyrifos-methyl)

a b c d Outlier
sr RSDr , % SR , ng/g RSDR , % e
Analyte Matrix Avg. concn Rec., % HorRat No. of labs labs
Chlorpyrifos-methyl Grapes 165 14 8.5 35 83 21 1.00 11 6-C, 4-C
Lettuces 178 20 11 30 89 17 0.81 10 11-SG
Oranges 174 25 14 36 87 20 0.98 12
f f
Kresoxim-methyl Grapes 9.2 1.9 21 3.2 NA 35 1.09 12
g
Cyprodinil Grapes 112 NA NA 18 NA 16 0.73 13
l-Cyhalothrin Lettuces 58 6.1 11 11 NA 20 0.80 9 11-C
f
Permethrins Lettuces 112 9.8 8.7 41 NA 36 1.63 9 6-C, 1-C
Imidacloprid Lettuces 12 NA NA 1.6 NA 14 0.44 11
Ethion Oranges 198 23 12 36 NA 18 0.89 11 11-C
Thiabendazole Oranges 53 3.8 7.2 7.6 NA 14 0.58 12
f
Imazalil Oranges 13 NA NA 4.7 NA 35 1.15 8 7-SG
a
sr = Standard deviation for repeatability (within laboratory).
b
RSDr = Relative standard deviation for repeatability.
c
sR = Standard deviation for reproducibility (among laboratories).
d
RSDR = Relative standard deviation for reproducibility.
e
C = Cochran outlier; SG = single Grubbs outlier.
f
RSDr >15%; 120% < Rec. < 70%; RSDR >25%; HorRat >1.2; and fewer than 8 laboratories in an assessment.
g
NA = Not applicable.

2007 AOAC INTERNATIONAL

Table 2007.01B. Interlaboratory study results for fortified pesticides in grapes
a
Analyte Avg. C, ng/g sr, ng/g RSDr, % sR, ng/g Rec., % RSDR, % HorRat No. of labs Outlier labs
Atrazine 9.3 0.6 6.9 2.0 93 21 0.65 13
45 3.2 7.1 5.7 90 13 0.49 13
365 23 6.2 71 91 19 1.04 13
Azoxystrobin 9.4 0.6 6.6 2.0 94 21 0.64 13
92 8.7 9.4 11 92 12 0.51 12 8-SG
182 17 9.2 26 91 14 0.70 12 8-SG
b
Bifenthrin 7.8 0.8 11 2.3 78 30 0.89 11 2-C, 10-C
86 5.9 6.9 14 86 17 0.73 12 6-C
923 71 7.7 136 92 15 0.91 13
b
Carbaryl 12 1.2 11 2.8 104 27 0.85 12 5-SG
50 6.4 13 11 100 22 0.87 13
1003 70 7.0 189 100 19 1.18 12 5-C
b b
Chlorothalonil 6.3 0.9 14 2.1 63 33 0.97 8 10-C
59 8.3 14 13 79 23 0.93 10
b b
140 19 13 38 70 27 1.27 10
b b
Chloropyrifos 8.1 1.5 19 3.0 81 37 1.12 12
68 8.3 12 14 84 20 0.84 13
396 25 6.4 50 79 12 0.68 12 11-SG
c
Cyprodinil 123 13 10 26 101 21 0.95 13
b b
240 20 8.3 63 92 26 1.32 13
581 42 7.3 110 95 19 1.09 13
b b
o,p-DDD 8.9 1.4 16 3.2 89 36 1.09 12
42 3.1 7.3 7.0 84 17 0.65 12
445 32 7.1 47 89 10 0.58 11 6-C
Dichlorvos 7.2 1.0 14 1.3 72 18 0.53 11 8-SG
85 7.4 8.7 15 85 18 0.77 11 4-C
294 25 8.5 62 98 21 1.10 12
b
Endosulfan sulfate 8.6 0.9 10 1.5 86 17 0.52 7 10-C
115 14 12 21 77 18 0.81 11
b b
415 56 14 111 83 27 1.47 11
b b
Imazalil 7.6 0.8 9.8 3.1 76 41 1.22 11
b b
50 2.5 4.9 15 67 30 1.19 10 8-C
b b
432 53 12 161 78 37 2.06 11
b
Imidacloprid 8.8 0.8 8.9 3.0 88 34 1.04 13
45 3.5 7.7 8.9 99 20 0.78 13
218 18 8.2 24 97 11 0.56 12 8-SG
b b
Linuron 9.9 1.7 17 2.9 99 29 0.90 11
99 7.4 7.4 15 99 15 0.67 12
b
971 65 6.7 191 97 20 1.23 12
b b
Methamidophos 10 2.9 29 3.0 101 30 0.95 9 5-SG
80 8.0 10 14 80 18 0.77 12
852 72 8.4 119 85 14 0.85 11 8-SG
b
Methomyl 9.3 1.2 12 2.9 93 32 0.98 12
50 3.3 6.7 9.3 100 19 0.74 13
204 10 4.9 26 102 13 0.63 13
Procymidone 8.2 0.7 8.2 2.0 82 24 0.74 11 5-SG
64 6.0 9.4 16 85 24 1.01 13
428 16 3.8 70 86 16 0.90 12 9-C
b b b
Pymetrozine 6.2 1.2 20 1.6 62 27 0.77 11
b
47 3.1 6.7 9.6 62 20 0.81 11
b
341 20 5.8 59 68 17 0.92 11
Tebuconazole 9.2 1.1 12 1.2 92 13 0.41 12 3&4-DG
63 5.5 8.7 8.8 84 14 0.58 13
439 29 6.7 84 88 19 1.06 13
b
Tolylfluanid 7.9 1.0 12 3.1 79 39 1.19 13
b b b
34 4.3 13 13 67 37 1.41 13
b b
144 13 8.8 42 72 29 1.37 13
Trifluralin 7.8 0.7 8.5 1.8 78 23 0.68 12 10-C
58 3.7 6.4 14 77 25 1.02 13
379 19 5.1 48 76 13 0.69 10 6-C, 4-C, 11-SG
a
C = Cochran outlier; SG = single Grubbs outlier; DG = double Grubbs outliers.
b
RSDr >15%; 120% < Rec. < 70%; RSDR >25%; HorRat >1.2; or fewer than 8 laboratories in an assessment.
c
Cyprodinil was incurred in the grapes and affected quantitation.

2007 AOAC INTERNATIONAL

Table 2007.01C. Interlaboratory study results for fortified pesticides in lettuces
a
Analyte Avg. C, ng/g sr, ng/g RSDr, % sR, ng/g Rec., % RSDR, % HorRat No. of labs Outlier labs
Atrazine 9.9 1.5 15 1.8 99 18 0.56 11
70 7.9 11 15 93 21 0.88 12
930 50 5.4 166 93 18 1.11 11 5-C
Azoxystrobin 10 0.8 7.6 1.8 102 18 0.56 12
47 2.4 5.2 6.5 93 14 0.55 12
531 32 6.1 88 106 17 0.94 12
Bifenthrin 9.1 0.8 9.1 1.4 91 16 0.48 11
66 8.0 12 9.4 88 14 0.59 11
217 27 12 33 87 15 0.77 11
Carbaryl 9.4 1.1 12 2.0 94 22 0.67 12
92 6.1 6.7 9.0 92 9.8 0.43 11 8-SG
b
589 38 6.4 127 98 22 1.24 12
b b b
Chlorothalonil 6.2 0.8 14 2.0 62 32 0.93 6
b b b b
28 10 37 14 70 48 1.77 7
b b b b b
684 134 20 205 68 30 1.77 6
b b
Chloropyrifos 9.0 2.1 24 2.3 90 26 0.79 9 12-SG, 10&11-DG
86 9.4 11 20 86 23 1.01 11 11-SG
179 18 10 30 90 17 0.82 11 11-SG
Cyprodinil 9.7 1.0 10 1.4 97 14 0.44 11 11-SG
44 2.7 6.1 8.9 89 20 0.79 11 11-SG
848 61 7.2 117 85 14 0.84 10 8-SG
o,p-DDD 8.9 0.6 7.0 1.9 89 21 0.66 8
81 4.8 5.9 12 81 15 0.63 9 11-C
214 19 8.7 27 86 13 0.62 10
b b b b
Dichlorvos 5.2 1.0 20 2.4 52 45 1.29 12
58 6.6 11 12 77 20 0.81 12
b
838 50 6.0 224 84 27 1.63 11
b b b b b
Endosulfan sulfate 5.6 3.3 59 2.5 56 45 1.28 2
b b b b
38 9.6 25 15 75 39 1.48 7
b b b b
769 330 43 312 77 40 2.44 7
b
Imazalil 7.6 0.3 3.5 3.5 76 39 1.18 8 2-C
b b b
72 3.7 5.2 24 57 33 1.39 11
b b b
589 47 7.9 229 59 39 2.25 11
c
Imidacloprid 22 1.3 6.2 1.7 100 7.9 0.28 11 8-SG
84 6.2 7.4 8.1 97 9.6 0.41 12
515 21 4.2 53 101 10 0.58 11 5-C
Linuron 8.6 1.1 12 1.5 86 17 0.53 11
46 2.2 4.9 7.4 91 16 0.63 10 2-C
234 14 5.8 25 94 10 0.53 11
Methamidophos 8.8 0.8 8.5 1.3 88 15 0.46 8 6-C
66 4.5 6.9 12 82 18 0.72 11
538 37 6.8 63 84 12 0.67 9 5-C, 8-SG
Methomyl 9.7 0.8 8.6 1.0 96 10 0.32 10
99 8.0 8.1 6.4 99 6.5 0.29 10 2-SG
997 24 2.4 168 100 17 1.05 11
Procymidone 10 0.6 6.2 2.2 101 22 0.68 8 2-C
92 8.5 9.2 15 92 17 0.73 11
967 118 12 129 97 13 0.83 11
b
Pymetrozine 6.9 0.4 6.1 1.4 69 20 0.59 10
b
33 1.6 4.7 4.6 67 14 0.51 9 11-C
b
127 8.5 6.7 17 63 13 0.61 10
Tebuconazole 9.7 0.7 6.9 1.2 97 13 0.40 11 4-C
89 6.8 7.7 11 89 12 0.52 12
b
948 42 4.4 226 95 24 1.48 11 4-C
b b b b b
Tolylfluanid 3.7 1.1 30 2.2 37 59 1.59 4
b b b b
9.3 3.7 40 4.1 9.3 44 1.37 8 3-SG, 8-SG
b b b
142 22 15 86 14 61 2.84 8 12-C, 3&8-DG
Trifluralin 10 1.4 13 1.7 103 17 0.54 11
42 4.5 11 9.0 84 22 0.83 11
169 25 15 30 84 18 0.84 11
a
C = Cochran outlier; SG = single Grubbs outlier; DG = double Grubbs outliers.
b
RSDr >15%; 120% < Rec. < 70%; RSDR >25%; HorRat >1.2; or fewer than 8 laboratories in an assessment.
c
Imidacloprid was incurred in the lettuces unbeknownst to the SD.

2007 AOAC INTERNATIONAL

Table 2007.01D. Interlaboratory study results for fortified pesticides in oranges
a
Analyte Avg. C, ng/g sr, ng/g RSDr, % sR, ng/g Rec., % RSDR, % HorRat No. of labs Outlier labs
Atrazine 8.9 1.0 11 1.9 89 21 0.65 11 2-C
90 8.2 9.1 12 90 13 0.57 12
187 19 10 27 93 14 0.69 12
b
Azoxystrobin 8.4 1.3 16 1.8 84 21 0.65 11
65 5.2 8.0 8.1 86 12 0.52 12
853 35 4.1 82 85 9.6 0.59 11 11-C
b
Bifenthrin 9.7 2.3 24 2.3 97 24 0.75 10 9-SG
45 2.5 5.6 6.8 91 15 0.59 10 2-C
488 51 10 76 98 16 0.87 12
Carbaryl 8.4 0.6 7.3 2.1 84 25 0.77 10
66 5.0 7.5 14 88 21 0.88 11
172 8.8 5.1 34 86 20 0.95 12
b b b b b
Chlorothalonil 4.8 0.8 16 2.7 48 56 1.57 3
b b b b
70 14 20 29 70 42 1.74 6
b b b b b
330 137 42 131 66 40 2.09 7
b b
Chloropyrifos 11 1.6 14 5.0 111 45 1.58 9 2-C
82 4.5 5.6 12 82 15 0.64 10 9-C
b b
953 97 10 284 95 30 1.85 12 11-C
Cyprodinil 8.7 0.9 10 2.0 87 23 0.72 12
56 4.5 8.0 9.0 75 16 0.65 12
199 12 6.2 35 80 18 0.86 12
o,p-DDD 9.1 0.6 7.2 1.8 91 20 0.60 9 9-C
74 5.1 6.9 9.8 99 13 0.56 10 10-C
b
967 81 8.4 191 97 20 1.22 11
b
Dichlorvos 9.3 0.8 8.1 1.0 93 11 0.35 7 12-C
43 2.2 5.2 8.0 85 19 0.73 8 12-SG
446 22 5.0 54 89 12 0.68 10
b b b b b
Endosulfan sulfate 12 5.4 44 5.4 124 43 1.40 4 3-SG
b
83 19 23 19 83 23 1.01 10
b
240 35 15 61 80 25 1.28 10
c b
Imazalil 22 1.7 7.7 6.2 96 28 0.98 8 7-C
58 4.3 7.4 13 92 22 0.91 9
186 9.7 5.2 41 87 22 1.06 10
b
Imidacloprid 10 1.1 10 2.8 104 27 0.86 11
93 6.5 7.0 12 93 13 0.57 11
989 64 6.5 124 99 13 0.78 11
b b
Linuron 7.8 1.3 17 2.7 78 35 1.04 11
60 3.0 5.0 13 86 21 0.86 11
387 26 6.6 42 79 11 0.59 9 11,1-DG
Methamidophos 9.2 1.1 12 1.5 92 16 0.49 8 9-C
42 3.5 8.2 5.6 85 13 0.52 8 4-C
211 12 5.5 31 85 15 0.73 9 4&9-DG
b
Methomyl 8.5 0.8 8.9 2.8 85 33 0.99 9 7-C
68 4.8 7.0 8.7 91 13 0.54 12
492 19 3.9 60 98 12 0.69 12
b
Procymidone 11 0.9 8.1 3.9 108 36 1.15 8 12-C
43 3.5 8.0 5.8 86 14 0.53 10 10-C
170 16 9.7 25 85 15 0.71 11
b b
Pymetrozine 7.5 1.3 18 2.1 75 28 0.82 10
77 5.9 7.7 10 77 14 0.57 10
789 38 4.8 117 79 15 0.89 9 12-C
Tebuconazole 8.7 0.7 8.0 1.2 87 14 0.42 11
41 2.2 5.4 6.2 82 15 0.58 12
177 14 7.9 28 88 16 0.76 12
b b
Tolylfluanid 5.8 1.2 20 1.4 58 24 0.69 9 11-SG
b b b b
46 7.5 16 14 61 31 1.21 11 9-C
b b
356 54 15 134 71 38 2.02 12
b
Trifluralin 8.6 0.4 4.5 2.4 86 28 0.87 9 9-C
92 8.6 9.4 11 92 12 0.54 12
b
915 60 6.5 194 92 21 1.31 11 6-C
a
C = Cochran outlier; SG = single Grubbs outlier; DG = double Grubbs outliers.
b
RSDr >15%; 120% < Rec. < 70%; RSDR >25%; HorRat >1.2; or fewer than 8 laboratories in an assessment.
c
Imazalil was incurred in the oranges unbeknownst to the SD.

2007 AOAC INTERNATIONAL

 a
Table 2007.01E. Averaged interlaboratory study results for the fortified and incurred pesticides
Matrix Recovery, % RSDr, % RSDR, % HorRat No. of labs (n)
Grapes 86 11 10 4 22 8 0.90 0.29 12 1
Lettuces 87 12 10 7 20 9 0.83 0.45 10 1
Oranges 87 15 10 6 20 8 0.84 0.37 10 2
Overall 87 11 10 6 21 8 0.86 0.37 11 2
b
Incurred NA 12 4 22 8 0.92 0.30 11 2
a
Data from fewer than 7 laboratories in an assessment were excluded.
b
NA = Not applicable.

In Option A, if the laboratory had LVI capability, then 1 or 2 mL 75C for MeCN extracts or 100C for toluene ramped to 150C at
extracts were taken for dispersive-SPE (the volume depended on the 25C/min, then to 280C at 10C/min, and hold for 10 min. All
analyst preference and the type of centrifuge and tubes available in collaborators had much experience in pesticide residue analysis and
the laboratory). The final extract volume was 0.5 mL if 1 mL was were free to use their own analytical conditions provided that peak
taken for dispersive-SPE, and 1 mL if 2 mL underwent the cleanup shapes were Gaussian, peak widths at half heights were <5 s, and
step. In either case, two 15 g blank samples were used for the matrix signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) of the quantitative ion for the pesticides
blank (0-standard) and 6 matrix-matched calibration standards (5, at 10 ng/g equivalent concentrations in the sample were >10. For
10, 50, 100, 250, and 1000 ng/g equivalent concentrations). For qualitative purposes (which were not the focus of this study), at least
dispersive-SPE of the matrix blanks, either 7 separate tubes using 3 ions yielding relative abundances that reasonably match a
the same 12 mL extract volumes as the test samples could have contemporaneously analyzed reference standard are typically
been used, or 12 dispersive-SPE tube(s) with 7-fold greater extract needed to make an analyte identification.
volume(s).
In Option B, if LVI is not available for GC/MS, then 30 mL of (b) Liquid chromatograph/tandem mass spectrometer. A triple
matrix blank extract was needed after dispersive-SPE cleanup to quadrupole, ion trap, or other LC/MS/MS instrument may be used
provided it is capable of electrospray ionization (ESI) in the positive
prepare the matrix-matched calibration standards (or $60 mL initial
mode with computerized instrument control/data collection and has
extract). In this case, 6 matrix blanks of 15 g each were extracted
along with the test samples to provide enough blank extract volume, an AS. An injection volume (5100 mL) will be determined for each
which were combined, and seven 8 mL aliquots were distributed to instrument to achieve S/N > 10 for the quantitation ion for a 10 ng/g
7 dispersive-SPE tubes containing 0.4 g PSA + 1.2 g anhydrous equivalent sample concentration. As in GC/MS, the collaborators
MgSO4. had much experience in the analysis of pesticides and were free to
use their own conditions. Suggested LC conditions, however,
B. Apparatus and Conditions include a 15 cm long, 3.0 mm id, 3 mm particle size C18 column, flow
Note: Tables 4 and 5 of the collaborative study [J. AOAC Int. 90, rate of 0.3 mL/min, and gradient elution with an initial condition of
485(2007)] list the analytical instrumentation and sources of sample 25% MeOH in 5 mM formic acid solution taken linearly in 15 min to
preparation materials used by each laboratory in the study. Further 90% MeOH in 5 mM formic acid solution and held for 15 min. A
information appears in the full report. Since the time of the short C18 guard column must be used to protect the analytical
collaborative study, at least 3 vendors, United Chemical column, and a bypass valve must be used before the MS instrument
Technologies (Bristol, PA, USA), Restek (Bellefonte, PA, USA) and to avoid introduction of the early and late eluting nonanalyte
Supelco (Bellefonte, PA, USA) have introduced commercial components into the detector. The MS/MS conditions were
dispersive-SPE products for QuEChERS and other applications. See optimized in each laboratory using direct infusion into the ESI
Table 4 [J. AOAC Int. 90, 485(2007)] for sources of analytical source to provide highest S/N for the quantitation ion of each
instruments. LC-type analyte from a single MS/MS transition. A second
(a) Gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer.An ion trap, transition with reasonably matching relative abundance ratios vs a
quadrupole, time-of-flight (TOF), or other GC/MS instrument may contemporaneously analyzed reference standard is typically needed
be used with electron impact (EI) ionization, an autosampler (AS), for qualitative purposes.
and computerized instrument control/data collection. Either LVI of
(c) Centrifuge(s).Capable of holding the 50 mL centrifuge
8 mL for a 1 g/mL MeCN extract (e.g., 75C ramped to 275C at
tubes or bottles used for extraction and 1015 mL graduated
200C/min) or 2 mL splitless injection of 4 g/mL extracts in toluene centrifuge tubes or 2 mL mini-tubes used in dispersive-SPE.
at 250C may be used. A 35 m, 0.25 mm id, Determine the rpm settings that yield a given relative centrifugal
phenylmethyl-deactivated guard column must be used as a retention force (RCF), and ensure that maximum ratings of the centrifuge,
gap in either case. The analytical column is a 30 m, 0.25 mm id, tube/bottles, and rotors for the instrument are not exceeded.
0.25 mm film thickness (5%phenyl)-methylpolysiloxane (low
bleed) analytical column (DB-5ms or equivalent). Set He head (d) Balance(s).Capable of accurately measuring weights from
pressure on the column to be 10 psi or constant flow to be 0.05 to 100 g within 0.01 g.
1.0 mL/min with systems capable of electronic pressure/flow
(e) Freezer.Capable of continuous operation <20C.
control. After an appropriate time for solvent delay, use an
appropriate oven temperature program, for example, starting at (f) Furnace/oven.Capable of 500C operation.

2007 AOAC INTERNATIONAL

 (h) Graphitized carbon black (GCB) sorbent
(optional).120/400 mesh size, if no structurally planar pesticides
are included among the analytes.
(i) Helium.Purity that has been demonstrated to be free of
interfering compounds in GC/MS.
(j) Toluene (optional).Quality of sufficient purity that is free of
interfering compounds; only needed if LVI is not used in GC/MS.
(k) Methanol (MeOH).Quality of sufficient purity that is free
of interfering compounds in LC/MS/MS prepared in mobile phase
solution.
(l) Water.Quality of sufficient purity that is free of interfering
compounds in LC/MS/MS.
(m) Formic acid.Quality of sufficient purity that is free of
interfering compounds in LC/MS/MS prepared in mobile phase
solution.
(n) Pesticide standards.High purity reference standards of the
pesticide analytes, and quality control (QC) and internal standards
(ISs) prepared at highly concentrated stock solutions (e.g.,
2000 ng/mL) in MeCN with 0.1% HOAc. Stored in dark vials in the
freezer. Check annually for stability.
(o) Standard solutions.Prepared in MeCN for all
collaborators: IS solution = 40 ng/mL of both d10-parathion and
d6-a-HCH in MeCN; triphenylphosphate (TPP) solution = 2 ng/mL
TPP in 1% HOAc in MeCN solution; QC-spike solution = 40 ng/mL
of the 27 pesticide analytes in 0.1% HOAc in MeCN; and individual
test solutions = 10 ng/mL of each of the 30 compounds to be detected
(except 40 ng/mL TPP) in 0.1% HOAc in MeCN solution.
Collaborators prepared a test mix and calibration standard spike
solutions from those provided as described in E.
Figure 2007.01. Outline of the QuEChERS protocol (p) Blank sample.Verified to be free of analytes above the
used in the collaborative study. detection limit.
(q) Other reagents.Certain instruments may require nitrogen
or other materials/devices for their operation.
(g) Food chopper and/or blender.Preferably an s-blade
vertical cutter (e.g. Stephan, Robotcoupe) and and probe blender D. Materials
(e.g. Ultra-Turrax, Propsep). (a) Fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP) centrifuge
(h) Solvent evaporator (optional).For the evaporation of tubes.50 mL; e.g., Nalgene Part No. 3114-0050 or equivalent for
MeCN extracts, if LVI is not used in GC/MS. <16 g sample (or 250 mL FEP centrifuge bottles for 1675 g sample
size).
C. Reagents
(b) Spatula/spoon and funnel.For transferring sample into
[See Table 5 [J. AOAC Int. 90, 485(2007)] for sources of centrifuge tubes.
chemicals.] (c) Solvent dispenser and 14 L solvent bottle.For transferring
(a) Anhydrous magnesium sulfate (MgSO4).Powder form; 15 mL 1% HOAc in MeCN per 15 g sample in FEP centrifuge tubes
purity >98%; heated in bulk to 500C for >5 h to remove phthalates or bottles.
and residual water. (d) Centrifuge tubes (optional).1015 mL graduated. For
(b) Acetonitrile (MeCN).Quality of sufficient purity that is evaporation and/or dispersive-SPE.
free of interfering compounds. (e) Mini-centrifuge tubes (optional).2 mL. For dispersive-SPE (use
(c) Acetic acid (HOAc).Glacial; quality of sufficient purity tubes with o-ring-sealed caps to avoid leaks).
that is free of interfering compounds. (f) Syringes/pipets.Capable of accurate sample introduction of
(d) 1% HOAc in MeCN.Prepared on a v/v basis (e.g., 10 mL 2 or 8 mL volume into GC/MS and appropriate volumes of matrix
glacial HOAc in a 1 L MeCN solution). spike, IS, and calibration standard solutions (12.5300 mL).
(e) Anhydrous sodium acetate (NaOAc).Powder form (g) Repeating or volumetric pipets.Capable of accurately
(NaOAc3H2O may be substituted, but 0.17 g per g sample must be transferring 0.58 mL solvent.
used rather than 0.1 g anhydrous NaOAc per g sample). (h) Containers.Graduated cylinders, volumetric flasks, weigh
(f) Primary secondary amine (PSA) sorbent.40 mm particle boats, vials, and/or other general containers in which to contain
size (Varian Part No. 12213024 or equivalent). (Note: Premade samples, extracts, solutions, standards, and reagents.
dispersive-SPE tubes are now available from at least 3 vendors.) E. Preparation of Reagent Materials and Comminuted Sample
(g) C18 sorbent (optional).40 mm particle size, if samples (1) Prepare the necessary number of sealable vials/cups containing
contain >1% fat. 6.0 0.3 g anhydrous MgSO4 + 1.5 0.1 g anhydrous NaOAc (or 2.5

2007 AOAC INTERNATIONAL

 0.2 g NaOAc3H2O) per 15 g sample. Scoops of appropriate volume (1) Test mix in MeCN + 0.1% HOAc.4 ng/mL in 10 mL of all
can be used to speed the process, but weighing should still be done to 30 compounds to be analyzed. Add 1 mL each of QC-spike solution
check consistency. The containers should be sealed during storage + IS solution + TPP test solution + 1% HOAc in MeCN and fill to
and can be refilled and re-used without cleaning in between usages. 10 mL with MeCN. Calibration spike standards in MeCN for
(2) Prepare the necessary number of appropriate centrifuge tubes 27 pesticide analytes (make 10 mL each in volumetric flasks, then
(2 mL mini-centrifuge tubes or 1015 mL centrifuge tubes) transfer to 15 mL dark glass vials and store in freezer).
containing 0.05 0.01 g PSA sorbent + 0.15 0.03 g anhydrous (2) Cal-standard-1000.20 ng/mL of each pesticide + 4 ng/mL IS
MgSO4 per 1 mL extract taken for dispersive-SPE cleanup. (Note: in MeCN + 0.1% HOAc. Add 5 mL QC-spike solution + 1 mL IS
At least United Chemical Technologies, Restek, and Supelco now solution + 1 mL 1% HOAc in MeCN and fill to the mark with MeCN.
provide dispersive-SPE products commercially to replace this step.) (3) Cal-standard-250.5 ng/mL of each pesticide + 4 ng/mL IS in
If LVI is not available for GC/MS, then evaporation of the extracts MeCN + 0.1% HOAc. Add 1.25 mL QC-spike solution + 1 mL IS
will be needed, and 8 mL extract will be transferred to 1015 mL solution + 1 mL 1% HOAc in MeCN and fill to the mark with MeCN.
sealable centrifuge tubes containing 0.40 0.08 g PSA sorbent + (4) Cal-standard-100.2 ng/mL of each pesticide + 4 ng/mL IS in
1.20 0.24 g anhydrous MgSO4. For matrixes that contain >1% fat, MeCN + 0.1% HOAc. Add 500 mL QC-spike solution + 1 mL IS
add an additional 0.05 0.01 g C18 sorbent per mL extract to the solution + 1 mL 1% HOAc in MeCN and fill to the mark with MeCN.
container. If no planar pesticides are among the analytes (e.g., (5) Cal-standard-50.1 ng/mL of each pesticide + 4 ng/mL IS in
thiabendazole, terbufos, quintozene, and hexachlorobenzene), then MeCN + 0.1% HOAc. Add 250 mL QC-spike solution + 1 mL IS
0.05 0.01 g GCB sorbent per mL extract can also be added to the solution + 1 mL 1% HOAc in MeCN and fill to the mark with MeCN.
tube. (Note: Final extract volume may have to be reduced to 0.4 mL (6) Cal-standard-10.0.2 ng/mL of each pesticide + 4 ng/mL IS in
per 1 mL aliquot in dispersive-SPE if all 4 powders are used.) MeCN + 0.1% HOAc. Add 50 mL QC-spike solution + 1 mL IS
(3) Prepare 1% HOAc in MeCN in dispenser bottle by adding solution + 1 mL 1% HOAc in MeCN and fill to the mark with MeCN.
10 mL HOAc to 990 mL volume of MeCN or different desired (7) Cal-standard-5.0.1 ng/mL of each pesticide + 4 ng/mL IS in
amount in the same ratio. MeCN + 0.1% HOAc. Add 25 mL QC-spike solution + 1 mL IS
(4) Label all vials and tubes appropriately that will be used in the solution + 1 mL 1% HOAc in MeCN and fill to the mark with MeCN.
method. For laboratories without LVI in GC/MS, the preparation of the test
mix and the calibration spiking standards are described below:
(5) Note: Step 5 was conducted by the Study Director (SD) when
preparing the test samples. An appropriate chopper must be used to (1a) Test mix for GC in toluene.4 ng/mL in 10 mL of all
comminute large, representative sample portions. An uncommon or 30 compounds to be analyzed. Add 1 mL QC-spike solution + 1 mL
deuterated pesticide standard may be spiked into the sample during IS solution + 1 mL TPP test solution and fill to 10 mL with toluene.
homogenization to determine the effectiveness of the procedure. Calibration spike standards in MeCN for LC/MS/MS (in dark glass
AS vials stored in freezer).
Blend the sample until it gives a consistent texture. Transfer .200 g
to a sealable container for freezer storage after further (2a) Cal-standard-1000.20 ng/mL of each pesticide + 4 ng/mL
homogenization with a probe blender. Blend this subsample with the IS in MeCN + 0.1% HOAc. Add 500 mL QC-spike solution + 100 mL
mixer until it is homogeneous. The test portion (e.g., 15 g) is taken IS solution + 100 mL 1% HOAc in MeCN + 320 mL MeCN.
for extraction immediately, and the container is then sealed and (3a) Cal-standard-250.5 ng/mL of each pesticide + 4 ng/mL IS
stored in the freezer in case re-analysis is necessary. The advantages in MeCN + 0.1% HOAc. Add 125 mL QC-spike solution + 100 mL IS
of this approach are that the 15 g portion is highly representative of solution + 100 mL 1% HOAc in MeCN + 695 mL MeCN.
the original sample, the sample is well-comminuted to improve (4a) Cal-standard-100.2 ng/mL of each pesticide + 4 ng/mL IS
extraction by shaking, less time is spent on the overall
in MeCN + 0.1% HOAc. Add 50 mL QC-spike solution + 100 mL IS
homogenization process than trying to provide equivalent
solution + 100 mL 1% HOAc in MeCN + 770 mL MeCN.
homogenization of the large initial sample with the chopper, and a
frozen subsample is available for re-analysis if needed. Dilute QC-spike solution.4 ng/mL. Transfer 100 mL QC-spike
solution to AS vial and add 900 mL MeCN.
To provide the most homogeneous comminuted samples, frozen
(5a) Cal-standard-50.1 ng/mL of each pesticide + 4 ng/mL IS in
conditions, sufficient chopping time, and appropriate sample size to
chopper volume ratio should be used. Use of frozen samples also MeCN + 0.1% HOAc. Add 250 mL dilute QC-spike solution +
minimizes degradative and volatilization losses of certain pesticides. 100 mL IS solution + 100 mL 1% HOAc + 570 mL MeCN.
In this case, cut the sample into 25 cm3 portions with a knife and store (6a) Cal-standard-10.0.2 ng/mL of each pesticide + 4 ng/mL IS
the sample in the freezer prior to processing. Cryogenic blending in MeCN + 0.1% HOAc. Add 50 mL dilute QC-spike solution +
devices, liquid nitrogen, or dry ice may also be used (but make sure all 100 mL IS solution + 100 mL 1% HOAc and 770 mL MeCN.
dry ice has sublimed before weighing samples and ensure that water (7a) Cal-standard-5.0.1 ng/mL of each pesticide + 4 ng/mL IS in
condensation is minimal, especially in a humid environment). MeCN + 0.1% HOAc. Add 25 mL dilute QC-spike solution + 100 mL
(6) For laboratories with LVI in GC/MS, prepare a test mix of the IS solution + 100 mL 1% HOAc + 795 mL MeCN.
pesticides in MeCN + 0.1% HOAc to determine the retention times (tR) Calibration spike standards in toluene.Make 10 mL each in
and MS quantitation/diagnostic ions at the particular GC/MS volumetric flasks, then transfer to 15 mL dark glass vials and store in
conditions to be used in the analysis [see Table 2 of the collaborative freezer.
study (J. AOAC Int. 90, 485(2007)]. (8a) Cal-standard-1000-tol.20 ng/mL of each pesticide +
The preparation of the test mix and calibration spiking standards 4 ng/mL IS in toluene. Add 5 mL QC-spike solution + 1 mL IS
are described as follows: solution and fill to the mark with toluene.

2007 AOAC INTERNATIONAL

 (9a) Cal-standard-250-tol.5 ng/mL of each pesticide + 4 ng/mL (9) Seal the tubes well and mix by hand (or mix on a Vortex mixer)
IS in toluene. Add 1.25 mL QC-spike solution + 1 mL IS solution for 30 s.
and fill to the mark with toluene. (10) Centrifuge the dispersive-SPE tubes at >1500 rcf for 1 min.
(10a) Cal-standard-100-tol.2 ng/mL of each pesticide + Combine the matrix blank extracts.
4 ng/mL IS in toluene. Add 500 mL QC-spike solution + 1 mL IS G. Options for Handling Extracts for Analysis
solution and fill to the mark with toluene.
Option A.If 1 mL extracts are taken for dispersive-SPE in Step
(11a) Cal-standard-50-tol.1 ng/mL of each pesticide + 4 ng/mL
8, prepare extracts for concurrent LVI/GC/MS and LC/MS/MS
IS in toluene. Add 250 mL QC-spike solution + 1 mL IS solution and analyses as given (if 2 mL extracts are taken for dispersive-SPE in
fill to the mark with toluene. Step 8, then double all volumes given).
(12a) Cal-standard-10-tol.0.2 ng/mL of each pesticide +
(11A) Transfer 500 mL final extract from dispersive-SPE tubes to
4 ng/mL IS in toluene. Add 50 mL QC-spike solution + 1 mL IS AS vials for LVI/GC/MS.
solution and fill to the mark with toluene.
(12A) Add 50 mL TPP solution to all vials and 25 mL MeCN to test
(13a) Cal-standard-5-tol.0.1 ng/mL of each pesticide + 4 ng/mL
sample extracts, QC spike, 0-standard, and reagent blank.
IS in toluene. Add 25 mL QC-spike solution + 1 mL IS solution and
(13A) For the 6 calibration standards, add 25 mL each of the
fill to the mark with toluene.
respective cal-standard mix to the appropriately labeled vials.
F. 10-Step Streamlined Extraction and Cleanup Procedure (14A) Cap the vials, shake to mix, uncap the vials, and transfer
The method may be scaled appropriately to any subsample size 150 mL aliquots to similarly labeled AS vials for LC/MS/MS.
shown to be adequately representative of the original sample. If LVI (15A) Add formic acid solution in water to achieve the acid
is not used for GC/MS, then 12 g must be extracted. These concentration and organic solvent content at the initial LC mobile
instructions will be given for 15 g samples extracted in 50 mL FEP phase conditions (e.g., after transfer of 150 mL extract, then add
centrifuge tubes. [Note: Sample size may have to be reduced to 450 mL of 6.7 mM formic acid in water to yield 25% MeCN in 5 mM
1012 g for less dense matrixes (e.g., broccoli)]. Safety notes: formic acid aqueous solution).
Dispense solvents in a hood and wear appropriate laboratory safety
(16A) Cap the vials, and conduct LVI/GC/MS and LC/MS/MS
glasses, coat, and gloves. In centrifugation, do not exceed the
analytical sequences according to H. (Note: Ensure that the AS
tolerance of tube/bottle or rotor, and, if needed, pair the tubes of the
needle is set sufficiently low to uptake the relatively small volumes
most similar weights to best counterbalance the centrifuge.
contained in the AS vials.)
(1) (Note: Step 1 was done by the SD.) Weigh 15.0 0.1 g of
Option B.If LVI is not available, then $8 mL of each extract
thoroughly comminuted samples into FEP centrifuge tubes (use
must be taken for dispersive-SPE. Prepare extracts for concurrent
13 mL distilled water for a reagent blank in 1 of the 3 sets of
GC/MS and LC/MS/MS analysis as follows:
samples).
(2) Weigh 15 g blanks (3 or 7) for matrix-matched calibration (11B) Transfer 250 mL MeCN extract from dispersive-SPE tube to
standards (see A and G for options) and QC spike. To one of the AS vial for LC/MS/MS.
blanks, add 75 mL QC-spike solution (40 ng/mL of the 27 pesticide (12B) Add 25 mL TPP solution to all vials and 12.5 mL MeCN to
analytes) to make a 200 ng/g QC spike. test sample extracts, QC spike, 0-standard, and reagent blank.
(3) Add 15 mL 1% HOAc in MeCN per 15 g sample in each tube (13B) For the 6 calibration standards, add 12.5 mL each of the
using the solvent dispenser. respective cal-standard mix to the appropriate vials.
(4) Add 75 mL IS solution per 15 g sample (this will give 200 ng/g (14B) Add formic acid solution in water to achieve the acid
equivalent concentration). Do not add the IS solution to the 2 or concentration and organic solvent content at the initial LC mobile
6 matrix blanks to be used for matrix-matched calibration standards. phase conditions (e.g., add 860 mL of 6.7 mM formic acid in water to
(5) Add 6 g anhydrous MgSO4 + 1.5 g anhydrous NaOAc (or 2.5 g yield 25% MeCN in 5 mM formic acid aqueous solution).
NaOAc3H2O) per 15 g sample to the tubes (the extract will reach (15B) For evaporation and solvent exchange to toluene for
4045C) and seal the tubes well (ensure that powder does not get into GC/MS analysis, transfer 4 mL MeCN extracts to 1015 mL
the screw threads or rim of the tube). graduated centrifuge tubes.
(6) Shake the tubes vigorously by hand for 1 min with 35 tubes at (16B) Add 400 mL TPP solution and 1 mL toluene to all tubes.
once in each hand (using the elbows and shoulders more so than the
(17B) Evaporate the extract in a Turbovap or N-Evap at 50C and
wrists), ensuring that the solvent interacts well with the entire
sufficient N2 flow until volume is 0.30.5 mL.
sample and that crystalline agglomerates are broken up sufficiently
during shaking (a mechanical shaker may be faster for parallel (18B) For the 6 matrix-matched calibration standards, add 200 mL
extraction of larger samples in FEP bottles). each of the respective cal-standard mix-tol (in toluene) to the
(7) Centrifuge the tubes at >1500 rcf (e.g., 3500) for 1 min. The appropriate vials.
greater the force used, the better for forming a solid sample plug and (19B) Add toluene to take the extract up to 1 mL and add
providing cleaner extracts. Combine the 6 matrix blank extracts if anhydrous MgSO4 to reach the 0.2 mL mark on the tube and swirl to
Option B will be followed in G. rinse above the 6 mL mark.
(8) Transfer needed amount (12 mL in Option A or 8 mL in (20B) Centrifuge the tubes at >1500 rcf for 1 min and transfer
Option B) of the MeCN extracts (upper layer) to the dispersive-SPE .0.6 mL of the final extracts to the appropriate AS vials for GC/MS
tubes containing 50 mg PSA sorbent + 150 mg MgSO4 per mL analysis.
extract (see A and G). For Option A, it is possible to scale up this step (21B) Cap the vials, and conduct GC/MS and LC/MS/MS
7-fold in 1 or 2 tubes for dispersive-SPE of the matrix blanks. analytical sequences according to H.

2007 AOAC INTERNATIONAL

H. LVI/GC/MS and LC/MS/MS Analyses verify the accuracy of the calibration. In nearly all cases, C < 75 ng/g
Conduct proper LVI/GC, LC, and MS maintenance to ensure used the low range plot and C > 75 ng/g used the high range plot, but
adequate operation of the instruments. Inject the 10 ng/g matrix a few exceptions were made when 1 plot was observed to be
standard at the conditions to be used. In GC, ensure that peak shapes considerably better than the other. Results were also noted in bold
of the analytes are Gaussian, widths are <5 s at half height, and S/N when the calculated C was >20% higher (typically >1200 ng/g) or
>10 is achieved for the pesticides using the quantitation ions chosen lower (typically <4 ng/g) than the highest or lowest calibration
at the appropriate tR. It is anticipated that some analytes will be standards in the plot used. Independent of QC measures and
problematic at 10 ng/g, but LC/MS/MS often provides good results quantitation issues, all results were still included in the statistical
for those difficult compounds in GC. Perform maintenance to calculations, except when calibration plots were very poor. Figure 2
correct problems if poor GC quality is observed for those analytes of the collaborative study [J. AOAC Int. 90, 485(2007)] shows some
that are not detected by LC/MS/MS. Use alternate or additional examples of calibration curves that yielded untrustworthy results.
quantitation ions if S/N is inadequate and/or matrix interferences Data transfer errors, interferences, poor system suitability,
occur. In that case, inject the 0-standard to determine if significant misintegrations, or mislabeling are the likely causes for those
interferences are present at the tR of the analyte(s). problems when they occurred.
Conduct a similar system suitability assessment of LC/MS/MS J. Statistical Analysis of the Results
for the analytes. Use an injection volume that achieves S/N >10 for
After the data was compiled and organized, the statistical analysis
the least sensitive analyte in the 10 ng/g standard and provides
was performed using AOAC guidelines [Official Methods of
Gaussian peaks with widths <30 s at half maximum height.
Analysis (2002) Appendix D: Guidelines for Collaborative Study
Once the suitability of the instruments has been shown to be
Procedures to Validate Characteristics of a Method of Analysis,
acceptable, inject the extract sequences in the following suggested
AOAC INTERNATIONAL, Gaithersburg, MD]. The SD conducted
order: (1) 0-standard; (2) 250 ng/g standard; (3) 10 ng/g standard;
an evaluation of the results using a self-designed spreadsheet
(47) test samples 14; (8) 5 ng/g standard; (9) 50 ng/g standard;
template following the examples in the guidelines. A U.S.
(1012) test samples 57; (13) QC spike; (14) 100 ng/g standard;
Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service,
(15) 1000 ng/g standard; and (16) reagent blank. No evidence of
statistician and AOAC volunteer, John Phillips, also calculated the
carry-over should be present in the reagent blank. Store the extracts
results independently using a statistical spreadsheet program
at <20C if the analyses cannot be conducted immediately after
designated by AOAC. Comparison of the results was made, and the
sample preparation, but degradation of certain pesticides in the
causes of any discrepancies were corrected until all results were in
extracts will likely occur during prolonged storage.
agreement.
I. Data Analysis The SD evaluated the data in several different ways entailing the
Quantitation is based on linear least squares calibration of analyte use of an IS or not. The statistician only evaluated the data without
peak areas plotted versus analyte concentration. The y-intercept use of an IS, and in these cases, outliers were removed for statistical
should be near zero and correlation coefficient (r2 ) of the line should reasons only. Outliers (P = 0.025) were removed based on
be >0.995. The integrated peak area (or the analyte peak area/IS calculations of repeatability within a laboratory (Cochran outlier
peak area ratio if the IS is used) becomes the signal, S. Peak heights test) and reproducibility among laboratories (Grubbs outlier test).
may be evaluated if peak areas are shown to give a problem. The The acceptability of the results was judged predominantly with
analyte concentrations in the matrix-matched calibration standards respect to recoveries, intralaboratory repeatability, interlaboratory
on a per sample basis (ng/g) can be determined by multiplying the reproducibility, and the Horwitz ratio (HorRat), which is calculated
volume (mL) added to the extract by the analyte concentrations in from the equation:
the cal-standard mix solutions (ng/L) and dividing by the equivalent
weight (g) of sample in the final extract (1 g/mL for MeCN extracts HorRat = RSDR/2C0.1505
and 4 g/mL for those in toluene). The concentrations, C (ng/g), of the
pesticide analytes in the test samples and QC spike are determined where RSD R is the overall relative standard deviation of
from the equation: reproducibility for all laboratories in the study and C is the
determined concentration (weight analyte/weight sample) of the
C = (S y-intercept)/slope analyte in the blind duplicate test samples. This relationship
If a well-characterized quadratic relationship occurs, then a provides an easy comparison of the results from this collaborative
best-fitted quadratic curve should be employed for calibration study with other collaborative studies that were used to calculate the
instead. Horwitz equation [Horwitz, W., Kamps, L.R., & Boyer, K.W.
A spreadsheet was provided to all collaborators that automatically (1980) J. Assoc. Off. Anal. Chem. 63, 13441354]. The Horwitz
calculated results for each analyte in GC/MS and LC/MS/MS for equation is an empirically derived relationship between analyte
each matrix. Figure 1 of the collaborative study [J. AOAC Int. 90, concentration and acceptable variability of results. Essentially, a
485(2007)] shows a small section of the spreadsheet for Laboratory HorRat value between 0.52 indicates that the result meets
1. The collaborators entered the analytical conditions, integrated acceptance criteria for AOAC in collaborative study trials [Horwitz,
peak areas, tR, and quantitation ions used for each analyte into the W., & Albert, R. (2006) J. AOAC Int. 89, 10951109]. In pesticide
appropriate cells in the spreadsheets. The spreadsheet then provided residue analysis, it is desirable to achieve recoveries between
calibration plots in the 5100 and 501000 ng/g ranges for 70120% (or 50150% depending on the purpose of the analysis),
determination of C according to the equation above. The repeatabilities <15% RSD, and reproducibility <25% RSD.
recoveries of the calibration standards were back-calculated to Reference: J. AOAC Int. 90, 485(2007).

2007 AOAC INTERNATIONAL