Linear- and branched-PFAS in Italian food of animal origin: Quantification approaches using UHPLC-HRMS

A sensitive analytilal method, based on liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry, was successfully applied to detect levels of legacy total- PFOA, PFNA, PFHxS and PFOS in food of animal origin collected in Italy. Two methodologies (pragmatic and hybrid) were validated for the quantification of isomeric PFAS mixtures. These methodologies fulfil the specific performance criteria set out in the European Legislation. Legacy PFAS were likely detected in fish and other seafood products showing higher levels (mean lb. 24PFAS, 0.02-1.56 ng g) compared to other food groups (0.01-0.16 ng g & sup1;). The total-PFOS contribution was the most prevalent in all food categories ranging between 5196 in crustacean and 100% in farmed fish, meat and liver. The branched isomers were only detected in the case of PFOS, contributing approximately 5-10% to the total-PFOS for most seafood products and 30% for bovine liver.