Application of a LC-MS/MS method for multi-mycotoxin analysis in infant formula and milk-based products for young children commercialized in Southern Brazil.

An analytical method based on liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was validated and applied for the analysis of aflatoxin M-1 (AFM(1)), ochratoxin A (OTA) and deoxynivalenol (DON) in infant formula and milk-based products for young children commercialized in Brazil. A total of 38 samples were evaluated, including 12 infant formula, 14 follow-on formula and 12 samples of milk-based products. AFM(1) was detected in 12 (32%) samples, and seven (18%) samples contained AFM(1) levels above the method limit of quantification in a concentration range between 0.013 and 0.067ng mL(-1) (0.026 +/- 0.019). Two samples of milk-based products exceeded the maximum level (ML) fixed by the European Union for AFM(1) in baby foods, however, all samples were in agreement with the levels established by the Brazilian regulation. OTA and DON were not detected in any of the analyzed samples.