Thermo Fisher Scientific has announced a new method for the simple and accurate analysis of cadmium in chocolate.
The iCE 3500 atomic absorption spectrometer allows simple analysis of this trace element, while the company's Solaar software enables easy method development.
The Graphite Furnace Television (GFTV) capability of the iCE 3500 also aids method development, as sample deposition and sample drying can be viewed in real time inside the cuvette.
The method is detailed in an application note entitled 'The analysis of cadmium in chocolate by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry,' which is available to download from the Thermo Fisher website.
Samples were analysed following a simple digestion procedure and matrix matched standards were used to accurately determine cadmium concentration.
The GFTV enabled optimisation of the position of the injection capillary and allowed visualisation of the deposition of the sample into the cuvette, ensuring accuracy and repeatability.
The wizard-driven Solaar software enabled quick and easy furnace optimisation and method development.
Experimental results revealed that cadmium was accurately detected in all analysed chocolate samples, at concentration levels well below recommended limits for cadmium in foodstuffs.
