Introduction
The presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in consumer products has become a critical concern in public health and environmental safety. These synthetic chemicals, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” are persistent in the environment and the human body, potentially causing adverse health effects. One of the most reliable and accurate analytical techniques for detecting these compounds at trace levels is PFAS Testing with LC-MS/MS (Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry).
At ResolveMass Laboratories Inc., we specialize in trace-level PFAS testing with LC-MS/MS, offering validated methods and precise analysis for regulatory compliance and product safety assurance. This blog explores our scientific approach, methodology, and a real-time case study involving PFAS testing in consumer product packaging.
What Are PFAS and Why Test for Them?
PFAS are a class of over 12,000 synthetic chemicals used for their non-stick, water-resistant, and grease-repelling properties. Commonly found in food packaging, textiles, non-stick cookware, and industrial applications, PFAS are highly stable and do not break down easily in nature or the human body.
Due to increasing evidence of their potential health impacts—including thyroid disruption, immune suppression, cancer, and developmental issues—the need for PFAS testing with LC-MS/MS has surged globally.
Why LC-MS/MS for PFAS Testing?
PFAS testing with LC-MS/MS is the gold standard analytical method due to its:
- High sensitivity for detecting low parts-per-trillion (ppt) concentrations.
- Selectivity for distinguishing between structurally similar PFAS compounds.
- Robust quantification for regulatory compliance (e.g., EPA Method 533 and 537.1).
This advanced technology enables laboratories like ResolveMass Laboratories Inc. to conduct comprehensive PFAS testing in various matrices such as water, packaging materials, biological fluids, and environmental samples.
For more on our PFAS services, visit our PFAS Testing page.
Applications of PFAS Testing with LC-MS/MS
1. Food Contact Materials
Testing food wrappers, takeout containers, and microwaveable packaging for PFAS to meet FDA and Health Canada requirements.
2. Textiles and Leather
Detecting PFAS in waterproof clothing, carpets, and upholstery.
3. Cosmetics and Personal Care Products
Ensuring consumer safety from potential dermal exposure to PFAS.
4. Water and Soil Monitoring
Essential for environmental risk assessment and remediation projects.
5. Consumer Product Packaging
Analyzing non-food packaging to detect unintentional PFAS contamination—a critical area showcased in our case study below.
Real-World Case Study: PFAS Testing in Consumer Product Packaging
Background
A global packaging manufacturer approached ResolveMass Laboratories Inc. to test their newly developed consumer product wrappers. Their client, a multinational food brand, required third-party verification that the packaging was free from regulated PFAS to meet EU and US retail compliance.
Objectives
- Detect PFAS at trace levels (ppt).
- Compare the results to regulatory thresholds.
- Provide certification and full documentation for their supply chain.
Methodology
- Sample Prep: 5g of packaging material was extracted using methanol.
- Analytical Technique: PFAS testing was performed with LC-MS/MS using isotope dilution techniques.
- Target Analytes: 30 PFAS compounds including PFOA, PFOS, PFHxA, and GenX.
Results
- Quantification Limits: 0.5 ppt for individual PFAS.
- Detected Compounds: None found above method detection limits.
- Conclusion: The packaging passed all PFAS safety criteria.
Outcome
The client received a full PFAS testing report with LC-MS/MS chromatograms, method validation data, and signed certification. This enabled them to proceed with regulatory filings and market launch.
Why Choose ResolveMass for PFAS Testing with LC-MS/MS?
- Experienced Analytical Team with years of method development and regulatory support.
- State-of-the-Art LC-MS/MS Instruments that exceed standard detection capabilities.
- Proven Track Record in supporting global clients in food, pharma, packaging, and environmental sectors.
Explore more analytical capabilities like Direct Infusion Mass Spec, NMR, and Peptide Characterization for advanced profiling needs.
FAQs on PFAS Testing with LC-MS/MS
1. What is LC-MS/MS and why is it used for PFAS testing?
LC-MS/MS stands for Liquid Chromatography coupled with Tandem Mass Spectrometry. It offers ultra-sensitive detection of PFAS compounds, even at parts-per-trillion levels, making it ideal for safety assessments.
2. What are the regulatory limits for PFAS in packaging?
Limits vary by jurisdiction. The EU currently restricts certain PFAS to below 10 ppb in packaging, while the US EPA proposes limits in the ppt range for water, prompting more stringent product screening.
3. How many PFAS compounds can you detect in one test?
Our validated LC-MS/MS method screens for up to 50 PFAS compounds, including legacy (PFOA, PFOS) and emerging (GenX, PFBS) analytes.
4. Is PFAS testing mandatory for all consumer products?
Not yet, but regulatory momentum is building. Many large retailers require PFAS-free certification for packaging and textiles, even in the absence of national mandates.
5. How fast is the turnaround for PFAS testing with LC-MS/MS?
Typical turnaround time is 7–10 business days. Expedited options are available upon request for urgent regulatory needs.
6. What matrices can be tested for PFAS at ResolveMass?
We test water, food packaging, personal care products, textiles, and environmental samples using LC-MS/MS.
7. Are your methods compliant with EPA and Health Canada guidelines?
Yes, our methods follow EPA 533, 537.1, and ASTM D7979 standards and are aligned with Health Canada and EU recommendations.
8. How do you ensure accuracy in PFAS quantification?
We use isotope-labeled internal standards, matrix-matched calibration curves, and rigorous QA/QC protocols to ensure precision and reliability.
9. What is the detection limit for PFAS in your lab?
Our LC-MS/MS methods typically achieve detection limits as low as 0.5 ppt, depending on the matrix and target compounds.
10. How do I get started with PFAS testing at ResolveMass?
Visit our PFAS Testing page to learn more or Contact Us to speak with a scientific advisor.
Conclusion
PFAS testing with LC-MS/MS is indispensable in safeguarding public health, ensuring regulatory compliance, and maintaining brand reputation. At ResolveMass Laboratories Inc., our in-depth expertise, advanced instrumentation, and commitment to scientific excellence empower our clients to tackle even the most complex PFAS challenges confidently.
Let’s work together to keep your products PFAS-free and compliant.
🔗 PFAS Testing with LC-MS/MS
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🔗 NMR Small Molecule Testing
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ResolveMass Laboratories Inc.: Comprehensive Scientific Expertise You Can Rely On
ResolveMass Laboratories Inc. is a trusted Canadian contract research organization offering a wide spectrum of specialized services spanning polymer synthesis, advanced analytical testing, and custom organic synthesis. With over a decade of experience supporting pharmaceutical, biotech, and industrial clients, we bring scientific precision and regulatory insight to every project. Our core capabilities include Polymer Synthesis and Characterization, Peptide Characterization, Organic Synthesis, Nitrosamine Testing and Analysis, PFAS Testing, and Extractable & Leachable Studies, as well as a broad suite of analytical techniques such as HPLC, GC-MS, MALDI-TOF, NMR, and FTIR.
Our multidisciplinary team includes chemists, analytical scientists, and regulatory experts with advanced academic and industry backgrounds. We excel at developing customized, high-quality solutions—whether you need innovative polymer designs, impurity profiling, or confirmatory testing that meets global regulatory standards.
Clients across North America choose ResolveMass Laboratories for our deep technical knowledge, commitment to quality, and ability to deliver reproducible, reliable data that drives confident decision-making. When precision, innovation, and trust matter—ResolveMass is your partner of choice.
We have PhD level scientist who share this knowledge to you so that you can excel in your impurity identification project. This guide will help you understand all the relevant technical aspects, still if you need more help to understand more in your impurity identification, feel free to book a free consultation with our scientist for your project.
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