The use of ICP-MS for trace and ultra-trace level monitoring of toxic metals in food

摘要

Of increasing importance to the regulatory agencies of the European Union and its member countries is the presence of toxic heavy metals in food and other articles. To address this concern, the Danish Food Ministry has implemented a monitoring program to assay selected foodstuffs for the presence of mercury, lead, cadmium, arsenic, nickel, and selenium. These six elements are targeted because they are widespread in the environment, are bioaccumulated in the food chain, and are particularly harmful to humans, especially children at trace and ultra-trace levels (parts per trillion (ppt) and parts per quadrillion (ppq), respectively). Currently, the Food Ministry program monitors meat, fish and agricultural products.