ResourceFood and Beverage
Automated SPME-SICRIT-MS for rapid screening of contaminants in food and environmental matrices
26 Feb 2026Established methods like GC/MS and LC/MS are cornerstones of the modern lab and used extensively in environmental and food safety analyses. However, their throughput is often limited by extensive sample preparation. An alternative solution is ambient ionization mass spectrometry, which enables direct analysis with minimal sample handling.
In this application note, CTC Analytics describes a high-throughput workflow utilizing the PAL RTC autosampler, to enable the rapid screening of contaminants in various water, soil, and food matrices.
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PAL RTC
CTC Analytics AGThe PAL RTC with robotic tool change maximizes productivity in analytical and clinical labs.
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Mass SpectrometryMass spectrometry (MS) is a powerful analytical technique used to identify and quantify molecules based on the mass-to-charge ratio of gas-phase ions. It provides detailed information about the structure, composition, and properties of compounds and is widely used across fields such as environmental monitoring, materials science, drug discovery and development, food and beverage testing, and wider chemical research. Key MS techniques include tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS), liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LS-MS) and inductively coupled plasma (ICP-MS). Choosing from these wide range of techniques and technologies can be a daunting task, so keep up to date with scientific applications, performance expectations, and customer reviews here all in one place. Visit our product directory to receive quotes direct from the manufacturer.
Food ContaminationFood contamination refers to the presence of harmful substances or pathogens in food, posing risks to human health. Contaminants can be biological, chemical, or physical, and their detection is crucial for ensuring food safety. Advanced testing methods like PCR, chromatography, and spectroscopy are used to identify contaminants in food products. Browse our peer-reviewed product directory to find the best solutions for food contamination detection, compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.Environmental ContaminationContaminants in the environment are harmful chemicals that are present in the air, land and water. These include pesticides, pharmaceuticals, persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and many more.AutomationAutomation in laboratories and manufacturing processes enhances efficiency, precision, and scalability by reducing the need for manual intervention. It plays a critical role in improving productivity, minimizing human error, and accelerating workflows in fields like diagnostics, drug development, and industrial testing. Automation technologies include robotic systems, automated liquid handlers, and process control systems that streamline complex tasks and ensure consistent, reproducible results. Explore our peer-reviewed product directory to discover the best automation solutions, compare options, read user reviews, and get prices directly from manufacturers.