Multi-residue pesticide analysis is a laboratory method that screens a single sample simultaneously for hundreds of pesticide residues using chromatographic separation with mass spectrometric detection, verifying compliance with EU maximum residue levels.
In trade practice
Accredited laboratories apply QuEChERS extraction followed by GC-MS/MS or LC-MS/MS detection to cover the broadest range of compounds in one run. Buyers of frozen fruit, vegetables and grains typically require a multi-residue report from each production lot before shipment. A common oversight is failing to confirm that the laboratory’s scope covers compounds relevant to the crop and country of origin. The certificate of analysis should list each analyte tested, the detection limit and the result against the applicable regulatory limit.
In a specification
A product specification or purchase contract states that multi-residue pesticide analysis must be performed by an ISO 17025-accredited laboratory, with results reported per the maximum levels set out in the applicable EU pesticide residues regulation.