Fast temperature-programmed gas chromatography-mass spectrometry for food analysis

Abstract

Fast temperature-programmed gas chromatography (FTGC) is evaluated. A modified capillary column allowing temperature-program rates as high as 20°C/s is operated with mass spectrometric detection (MSD). FTGC methods are developed for the analysis of off-flavors in water, derivatized sugars, and fatty acid methyl esters. Liquid injection and solid-phase microextraction are evaluated. Although the resolution can be somewhat lower than analysis with a traditional column, time savings are significant. Analysis times range from 2 to 4.5 min compared with 20 to 60 min for conventional methods. MSD allows for the analysis of some coeluting peaks, which allows for quantitation even when peaks coelute.