Assessment of matrix effect of tomato and okra on the quantification of pesticides residues using UHPLC–MS/MS

Abstract

Liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass-spectrometry has remarkably enhanced the qualitative and quantitative analysis of the pesticide residues in agriculture matrices. The matrix effects may either suppress or enhance the responses of target analytes on UPLC-MS/MS and cause a reduction in accuracy, precision and sensitivity of an analytical method. Thus, Here performed the impact of matrix interferences of tomato and okra on QuEChERS based multi-residue analysis and quantification on UHPLC-MS/MS by comparing the calibration curves of the matrix-matched and pure solvent-based standards of 116 pesticides. Signal suppression was more pronounced in okra where >76% of pesticides recorded ME% values >50% while in the case of tomato matrix 91% pesticide shown the negligible effect. Careful consideration of matrix effect particularly okra like difficult matrices, before analysing the real sample will help the chemist to avoid the over or under estimation of toxic residues on UHPLC–MS/MS like highly sensitive analytical techniques.