The potential of double focusing-ICP-MS for studying elemental distribution patterns in whole milk, skimmed milk and milk whey of different milks

The aim of this work was to investigate the potential of DF-ICP-MS for stud ying in a straightforward manner multielemental distribution patterns in hu man, cow and formula milks. Thus, the multielemental determination of essen tial and toxic elements, of primary importance, such as Na, Ca, Mg, Al, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Se, Sr, Cd, Hg and Pb in whole milk, skimmed milk and milk whey by DF-ICP-MS is described. Skimmed milk and milk whey were obtain ed from whole milk by means of physical procedures (ultracentrifugation), w ithout any chemical treatment. In order to destroy organic matrix, each sam ple was digested (before ICP-MS final analysis) by using a microwave assist ed digestion method. A reference material, BCR natural skim milk powder (CR M 063) was analysed for testing the accuracy of the proposed methodology. A fter validation, the method has been applied to the multielemental analysis of different milk types and fractions. Results of total concentrations and distribution patterns of the above-mentioned elements in the different fra ctions (whole milk, skimmed milk and milk whey) of human milk, cow milk and formula milk, are presented. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights res erved.