Chromatography in Food Contaminant Analysis: Principles, Advances, and Applications for Food Safety

Abstract

Chromatography plays a pivotal role in food contaminant analysis, enabling the detection, separation, and quantification of harmful substances to ensure food safety and regulatory compliance. Recent advancements in chromatographic techniques—such as gas chromatography (GC), liquid chromatography (LC), and mass spectrometry (MS)—have enhanced the identification of low-abundance contaminants, including chiral compounds, organophosphorus pesticides, and mycotoxins. High-performance liquid chromatography and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography, coupled with MS, have improved sensitivity and accuracy, particularly in complex food matrices. Additionally, innovations such as microfluidic technologies, immunochromatographic assays, and magnetic covalent organic frameworks are revolutionizing rapid, on-site contaminant detection. The integration of artificial intelligence and green chromatography further optimizes analytical efficiency while reducing environmental impact. Regulatory frameworks and multi-residue methods support global harmonization of food safety standards, ensuring traceability and consumer protection. This chapter highlights the interdisciplinary applications of chromatography in detecting pesticide residues, mycotoxins, veterinary drugs, and food adulterants, emphasizing its critical role in risk assessment and public health. Emerging trends, including portable platforms and non-targeted screening, are also explored, demonstrating how chromatography continues to evolve in response to new food safety challenges.