Determination of Nitrofuran Metabolites in Milk by Liquid Chromatography with Diode-Array Detector

For the analysis of four metabolites of nitrofurans in raw milk - furazolidone, furaltadone, nitrofurazone and nitrofurantoin - a liquid chromatographic method using a diode detector was used. The method complies with the requirements of European Commission Resolution 2002/657 / ЕС. The sample was extracted by ethyl acetate, liquid-liquid extraction method was used, cleaning done by solid phase extraction on a silica gel column, after sample hydrolysis and derivatization with 2-nitrobenzaldehyde. The validation of the method was conducted following the European Union criteria for the analysis of veterinary drug residues in foods. The decision limits (CCα) were 0.14-0.32 μg/kg, and the detection capabilities (CCβ) 0.18-0.39 μg/ kg. The advantage of the method is that with relatively less financial costs it is possible to determine less than the minimum working limit for nitrofuran metabolites set by the EU (MRPL Minimum Required Performance Limit 1 μg /kg). This method is financially acceptable for developing countries.

Keywords: LC/DAD; Nitrofuran metabolites; Furazolidone; Furaltadone; Nitrofurazone; Nitrofurantoin; Milk

Highlights: Food safety requirements. Determination of nitrofurans in milk. Developing cheaper alternative for determination of nitrofuran residues. Developing inexpensive method for developing countries.