The levels of six polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) including benzo[a]pyrene and three other PAH were determined in smoked Mozzarella di Bufala Campana. Different smoking techniques were compared to evaluate the risk associated with consumption of these cheeses. Although no maximum limits are set for PAHs in cheese, the levels found in some samples constitute a health risk. In fact, using corrugated cardboard, high levels were detected in the whole product or in the outer part. Also, the use of traditional materials involves the accumulation of PAHs in the outer part, but in the total product concentrations are significantly lower. No contamination was found using liquid smoke.

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A new method specific for the determination and unambiguous confirmation of the antibiotic valnemulin in feed for all animal species is described. Simple clean-up based on solvent extraction and liquid partition is carried out prior to determination by liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray tandem mass spectrometry on a hybrid QTRAP 4000 system, in multiple reaction monitoring mode. Valnemulin is licensed in the European Union as a veterinary drug for use in feed for pigs and rabbits, but unavoidable carryover in feed for non-target species should be monitored. The method is rapid and reliable, and was validated in-house at 10, 100 and 750 ng g, evaluating the analytical performances according to Commission Regulation (EC) No. 882/2004. Good mean recoveries from 79.7% to 92.6%, and within-laboratory reproducibility RSDs, ranging from 6.2% to 12.1%, were measured; the limit of quantification at 10.0 ng g also allows for sensitive evaluation of undesirable carryover in feed for non-target species. The results of monitoring 24 compound feeds for several animal species are also reported.

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