Analysis of Neonicotinoids in Honey by QuEChERS and UHPLC-MS/MS

Neonicotinoids are a relatively new class of insecticides chemically similar to nicotine. Their mode of action works by irreversibly binding to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, resulting in insect paralysis and death. Recently they have come under scrutiny over their ecological impact, especially their role in honey bee colony collapse disorder. Neonicotinoid residues accumulate in pollen and nectar and pose a risk to honey bees. Due to their potential negative impact, the European Union recently restricted the use of three neonicotinoids for a period of 2 years.

This application note outlines a simple, fast and cost-effective method for the determination of 7 neonicotinoid pesticides in honey. Honey is dissolved in water and extracted via the QuEChERS technique followed by dSPE clean up. Analysis is performed by uHPLC/MS-MS using a Selectra^® DA uHPLC column. Results provided excellent sensitivity, selectivity and reproducibility.