Methods to define target uncertainty in Total Diet Studies

Abstract

The main purpose of Total Diet Studies (TDS) is to gain information on real dietary exposure to food contaminants. To produce reliable exposure estimations. analytical results need to be based on accurate procedures. One of the aims of the Total Diet Study Exposure Project (TDS-Exposure) is to develop a quality framework encompassing laboratory profile, adequate methods of analysis and establishment of realistic target uncertainty to guarantee fitness for purpose. Sample preparation and analysis are TDS steps where metrological principles are applied therefore, method performance and definition of target uncertainty by component and food are key features. In order to assess the target uncertainty to expect for each substance group A questionnaire was launched to TDS-Exposure partners to obtain information on laboratory quality profile which supports the decision on target uncertainty for each group of substances which have been prioritised in project: natural components; preservatives & colours; pesticides & veterinaries drugs residues; heavy metals, PCBs &dioxins; mycotoxins & akaloids; PAHs, furans & acrylamide; phthalates & bisphenol A. The results confirmed that modeling and experimental approaches are applied by analytical laboratories depending on the type of food and chemical substances. Target uncertainty established from limit of quantification is used to define the applicability of analytical methods.