An application note illustrating the analytical capabilities of their iCE 300 Series range of AA spectrometers for monitoring multiple trace metals in rice products has been published by Thermo Fisher Scientific. Food Safety Series–Determination of Trace Elements in Rice Products by Flame and Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry provides a detailed overview of sample and standard preparation with optimised methods for the analysis of copper, zinc, manganese, cadmium and lead in rice products using flame and furnace AA. Copper, manganese and zinc were analysed using flame AA, as these elements can be found as natural constituents in soils and water, which require detection within the low mg kg–1 (ppm) range. The research also looked for cadmium and lead, as these are toxic elements with no nutritional benefit. Since it was necessary to analyse these elements at trace levels, graphic furnace AA was used. Results were below 5g kg–1 for copper and zinc, below 40 µg kg–1 for manganese, 0.03 µg kg–1 for cadmium and 0.2 µg kg–1 for lead, ensuring regulatory compliance. A certified reference material was used to verify both the flame and furnace methods.
