Study of The Degree of Contamination of Sunflower Oil Composition with Heavy Metal Ions
Abstract
This article provides a scientific substantiation of modern laboratory approaches used to determine the degree of contamination of sunflower oil with heavy metal ions. The main focus is placed on the sample preparation stage, microwave digestion, the advantages of ICP-MS and ICP-OES methods, the alternative capabilities of graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry, quality control, method validation, and the procedure for recalculating results into mg/kg units. Taking into account the specific characteristics of the oily matrix, the article summarizes the principles of minimizing external contamination, using blank samples, evaluating recovery rates, and comparing results with current regulatory documents. In conclusion, closed-vessel microwave digestion followed by ICP-MS or ICP-OES analysis is recommended as the most reliable scientific approach for determining Pb, Cd, As, Hg, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Cr, and Zn in sunflower oil.