Comparing of two different detection methods (HPLC and LC-MS/MS) for the determination and confirmation of ochratoxin A in liquorice extract powder

Mycotoxins in food and feed are important risk factor for public health. There are many test methods for determination mycotoxins in food and feed and their products. The most common mycotoxins test method is based on high-performance liquid chromatography, but depend on the matrix, it is essential to develop validated methods of analysis and detection of them in food products. This study evaluated two different detection methods for the determination and confirmation of ochratoxin A (OTA) in liquorice extract powder. The detection of OTA was accomplished with high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) combined with fluorescence detector and Liquid Chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The results indicate that the LC-MS/MS method was more specific and sensitive for the analysis and confirmation of OTA in liquorice extract than HPLC method because of false positive in HPLC method in some sample. So to comply with OTA legislation and consumer health protection, improvements in OTA analytical methodology is essential.