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GLAUCUS ATLANTICUS
QuEChERS Kits
QuEChERS extraction and dispersive SPE kits for pesticide residue analysis in food, cannabis, and environmental matrices. EN 15662 and AOAC 2007.01 methods available.
2
Method Standards
50+
Matrix Types
50/pk
Kit Sizes
AOAC QuEChERS, dSPE Kit, 2mL, 100/unit
SKU: QQX-02-2035-K
EN QuEChERS, Extraction Pouch, 50mL, 100/unit
SKU: QQX-50-0010-P
AOAC QuEChERS, Extraction Pouch, 50mL, 100/unit
SKU: QQX-50-0020-P
AOAC QuEChERS, Extraction Pouch, 15mL, 100/unit
SKU: QQX-15-0031-P
🧬
What Is QuEChERS?
QuEChERS (Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, Safe) is a two-step sample preparation method for multi-residue pesticide analysis. Step 1 uses salted extraction (acetonitrile + salts) to partition analytes from the matrix. Step 2 uses dispersive SPE (dSPE) cleanup to remove co-extracted interferences like pigments, fats, and organic acids before LC-MS/MS or GC-MS/MS analysis.
METHOD COMPARISON
EN 15662 vs. AOAC 2007.01
| Feature | EN 15662 | AOAC 2007.01 |
|---|---|---|
| Buffering | Citrate buffer (Na₂HCit / Na₃Cit) | Acetate buffer (NaOAc) |
| pH of Extract | ~5.0–5.5 | ~4.5–5.0 |
| Best For | pH-sensitive pesticides, European regulatory | Broad-spectrum screening, FDA / USDA methods |
| Extraction Salts | MgSO₄ + NaCl + citrate salts | MgSO₄ + NaOAc |
| dSPE Cleanup | PSA + MgSO₄ (± C18, GCB) | PSA + MgSO₄ (± C18, GCB) |
| Regulatory Use | EU / EURL preferred | FDA, USDA, state cannabis labs |
💡Sorbent Selection
The dSPE sorbent mix depends on your matrix. Use PSA alone for fruits and vegetables with low fat. Add C18 for fatty matrices (avocado, nuts, meat). Add GCB (graphitized carbon black) to remove chlorophyll and carotenoid pigments from leafy greens and herbs. Over-use of GCB can adsorb planar pesticides, so optimize your sorbent loading.
FREQUENTLY ASKED
QuEChERS FAQ
Most state cannabis testing labs use the AOAC 2007.01 method or a modified version. The acetate-buffered extraction works well with cannabis flower and concentrates. Add C18 sorbent in the dSPE step to remove cannabinoid-related lipids and waxes.
Yes. Modified QuEChERS methods are validated for aflatoxins, ochratoxin A, and other mycotoxins in grains, spices, and dried fruits. Use the EN method with citrate buffering for better recovery of pH-sensitive mycotoxins.
Pre-weighed extraction salt tubes and dSPE tubes typically have a 2-year shelf life when stored sealed at room temperature in a dry environment. Avoid exposure to moisture, which can cause the salts to clump.
The 50 mL tube is standard for 10–15 g sample sizes. The 15 mL tube is used for the dSPE cleanup step (1–6 mL of extract) or for mini-scale extractions with smaller sample sizes (1–2 g).
Yes. We offer dSPE cleanup tubes specifically formulated for high-fat matrices (C18 + PSA + MgSO₄), pigmented matrices (GCB + PSA + MgSO₄), and general produce (PSA + MgSO₄). Contact us for custom sorbent combinations.
Setting up a pesticide residue testing program?
We can help you select the right QuEChERS method, sorbent mix, and downstream filtration workflow for your matrix.