Status : Verified
| Personal Name | Cristobal, Jannelle O. |
|---|---|
| Resource Title | Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) profiles of cacao mass (Philippine Tablea) |
| Date Issued | 12 June 2025 |
| Abstract | Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are organic contaminants that pose significant health risks, including carcinogenicity, necessitating strict monitoring in food products. This study developed and validated reliable analytical methods for quantifying fat content and eight priority PAHs (BaA, Chr, BbF, BkF, BaP, IndP, DahA, and BghiP) plus one additional marker (BeP) in cacao mass (Philippine Tablea) from six cacao-producing provinces across the country. Addressing the absence of standardized protocols in local laboratories, the validated procedures adhered to AOAC (2016) and Eurachem (2025) guidelines. Gravimetric fat analysis achieved a mean recovery of 101% with 0.99% RPD. The modified PAH method incorporating saponification, ultrasonication, column chromatography, solid phase extraction and GC-MS analysis demonstrated 87-113% recovery with 8-19% RSD. The method showed high sensitivity, with method detection limits (MDLs) of 1-2 ng/g and limit of quantification (LOQs) of 3-6 ng/g at 5 ng/mL spiking level. Accuracy was further confirmed using FAPAS quality control material. Analysis of 18 commercial samples revealed fat content ranging from 14-56%. One Iloilo sample exceeded EU regulatory limits for PAHs (EC No 836/2011), showing elevated a Davao sample reached the BaP threshold of 5 μg/kg fat. This study provides: (1) a validated analytical method suitable for local implementation; (2) baseline data for developing national PAH regulations; and (3) initial assessment data for future risk assessment initiatives. These findings contribute to enhancing the quality, safety, and global competitiveness of Philippine cacao products while protecting consumer health. |
| Degree Course | Master of Science in Food Science |
| Language | English |
| Keyword | Food contamination; Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons; Philippine Tablea; PAH profiles; Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons—Analysis; Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons—Toxicology; Cacao—Philippines; Quality control |
| Material Type | Thesis/Dissertation |
Preliminary Pages
638.29 Kb
Category : P - Author wishes to publish the work personally.
Access Permission : Limited Access