PerkinElmer
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  • Cannabis Analysis

Pesticide Testing

Analyzing with LC-MS/MS for Superior Selectivity, Sensitivity, Resilience, and Easy Sample Prep

High-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) has emerged as the method of choice for pesticide and mycotoxin analysis in cannabis. Traditionally, pesticides are screened using two analytical instruments: GC/MS and LC-MS/MS. However, most of the studies for the two-system technology approach either do not achieve state action limits or require multiple time-consuming sample preparation methods and instrument consumables.

Our QSight® 220 Pesticide Analyzer utilizes a single instrument and single prep method for rapid, reliable results — suitable for labs wanting to comply with stringent regulations. This method allows identification and quantification of all pesticides and mycotoxins at levels well below action limits (0.005 to 0.25 µg/g). The ability to screen and quantitate the hydrophobic and chlorinated compounds normally analyzed on a GC-MS/MS, as well as all the mycotoxins, makes it the ideal analytical technique for the cannabis industry.

Highlights of the Turnkey Method for Pesticide and Mycotoxin Analysis

  1. Ability to analyze all California-regulated pesticides and mycotoxins on a single LC-MS/MS
  2. Eliminates the need for GC-MS/MS by using APCI source (APCI used for pesticides such as PCNB and Chlordane)
  3. StayClean technology addresses matrix-induced maintenance issues in the MS instrument and improves throughput
  4. Provides a reliable and reproducible method, and SOP, with LOQs below state of California action limits
  5. Features simple and fast sample preparation procedure with acceptable recoveries for all analytes
  6. Complete application solution includes analysis of mycotoxins and pesticides with one instrument (sample preparation, chromatography, and mass spectrometry)

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Dual Sources Allow you to run ALL Pesticides on One Instrument

Eliminates the need for GC-MS/MS by using APCI source to detect:

  • Chlordane
  • Pentachloronitrobenzene

Captures trace amounts of tricky pesticides such as:

  • Captan
  • Chlorfenapyr
  • Cypermethrine
  • Cyfluthrin
  • Naled
  • Permethrin
  • Pryrethrin

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Technology that Makes the Difference

  • Dual Source - two independent probes provide true multiplexing flexibility
  • StayClean Source - self-cleaning design delivers maximum sensitivity and exceptional uptime
  • Mass Filters - high-quality precision rods provide highly stable, precise mass filtering
  • UniField Detector - patented technology counts positive and negative ions without high-voltage switching
  • HSID Interface - provides low background and reliable results day after day and reduces the number of parameters to manage
  • Laminar Flow Ion Guide - highly efficient field-free transmission
  • Collision Cell - fast, efficient fragmentation (Fast MRMs) shortens cycle time with zero crosstalk
  • Modular - plug-and-play design for ease of service

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Need more information?

Connect with a local specialist who can guide you through the process of setting up a cannabis laboratory and meeting regional regulations.