Inline sample preparation and ion analysis technology makes it is possible to alleviate most of the manual sample preparation and reduce the errors associated from sample handling
Food is a complex sample matrix that historically has contained many different manual sample preparation steps that were both labour intensive and time consuming to the user.
With Metrohm and its novel Misp (Metrohm Inline Sample Preparation) ion analysis technology it is possible to alleviate most of the manual sample preparation and reduce the errors associated from sample handling.
Typically sample pre-treatment for different solid food samples was maceration with heat to form a pulp, then addition of water to bulk up the solution, allow to stand, collect the top portion before a large dilution (to reduce the analytes from percent to milligram per litre range) and finally filtration to remove the particles that would severely reduce the lifetime and impair the operation of the separation columns required for the analysis of ions using chromatography.
The analysis of different carbohydrates in food samples (fish products in this application) can reliably and precisely be performed using ion chromatography (IC) using the 817 Bioscan from Metrohm with a 818 advanced IC pump and 812 valve unit in tandem with the 838 advanced IC sample processor equipped with unique patented sample handling technology.
All ion chromatography instruments from Metrohm come backed by the Cool guarantee (Cost Of Ownership is Lower than with competitors' instruments) for complete piece of mind in addition to Metrohm's proven reputation in ion analysis from sixty years of experience and expertise.
The food sample was macerated and 50mls of deionised water was added, allowed to stand and the supernatant portion used in the autosampler vial.
From this point the analysis was fully automated resulting in improved accuracy, reproducibility and a reduction in running costs.
A portion of the sample was then diluted with water with air mixing (to aid homogeneity) using the time proven 800 Dosino liquid handling device before dialysis through the novel and patented Metrohm dialysis cell equipped on the side of the 838 Advanced IC Sample Processor to remove any minute particles.
10ul of the dialysed sample was injected into IC system for analysis and a typical chromatogram obtained showing a presence of glucose, fructose, sucrose and maltose in the sample.
