Multi-residue analysis of eight veterinary drugs in buffalo milk using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry†

Abstract

Context There are still comparatively few methods for the detection of drug residues in buffalo milk. Aims This study aims to develop a method for the detection of drug residues in buffalo milk. Methods In this study, we developed an analytical method for veterinary drug residues in buffalo milk using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. The multi-residue method was established for the simultaneous identification and quantitation of eight common veterinary drugs, including metronidazole, salbutamol, atropine, trimethoprim, hydrocortisone, kitasamycin, roxithromycin and tylosin. Key results The sample processing method for buffalo milk was compared and optimised. The precision, recovery and matrix effects of the method were validated. The precision and accuracy of all analytes ranged from 1.81% to 12.35% and 1.25% to 14.57%, respectively. The average recovery percentages varied between 93.59% and 114.57%, and the average matrix effect ranged from 87.12% to 103.76%. All eight analytes in buffalo milk exhibited stability under different treatment conditions. Conclusions The developed method was successfully applied to laboratory analysis and routine sample analysis. The method was demonstrated to be rapid, sensitive and reliable for the rapid monitoring of veterinary drug residues in buffalo milk. Implications The findings of this study contribute to the risk assessment of veterinary drug residues for preventing the human consumption of contaminated buffalo milk and its derivatives.