Targeted LC–MS/MS Characterization of PFAS in Food Packaging and Their Migration into Food Simulants

Food packaging materials extensively utilize PFAS compounds for their exceptional grease and moisture resistance properties, yet their environmental persistence and potential health implications necessitate robust analytical methodologies.¹ The primary analytical challenges arise from PFAS structural diversity, ultra-trace concentrations, and complex matrix interference from packaging substrates. Contemporary LC–MS/MS methodologies address these limitations through isotope-labeled internal standards, optimized chromatographic separations, and matrix-specific calibration protocols.¹ These approaches achieve nanogram-per-kilogram detection limits while enabling simultaneous quantification of multiple PFAS analytes.¹ Analysis across different packaging substrates reveals distinct contamination profiles. Paper-based materials demonstrate markedly different PFAS distributions compared to plastic and multilayer composite systems, patterns that correspond directly to substrate-specific manufacturing processes and functional requirements.² These compositional variations have significant implications for method development and exposure assessment strategies. Migration studies demonstrate quantifiable PFAS transfer from packaging into food simulants under typical storage conditions.³ LC–MS/MS analysis confirms that migration occurs under standard use conditions rather than requiring elevated temperatures or extreme environments. Fast-food packaging investigations validate this migration during conventional heating and storage operations.³ This presentation evaluates current LC–MS/MS methodologies, detection capabilities, and migration findings to assess PFAS analysis in food-contact materials and identify analytical advancement opportunities.

References

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