Simple and Rapid Detection of Thermal Degradation Products of Cooking Oils Using a Benchtop MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometer

Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometers (MALDI-TOF MS) feature simple and rapid detection of low molecular to high molecular weight compounds in a wide range of samples. MALDI-TOF MS is widely used to determine molecular weights of synthesized products and natural substances in R&D laboratories and quality control sectors. In addition, utilizing the feature of MALDI-TOF MS which can detect multiple components in a wide mass range as singly-charged ions (1 component = 1 peak), an attempt is being made to use the instrument for profiling property changes of food and biological specimens. This article introduces an example of simple and rapid detection of heating-induced degradation products in cooking oils, using a benchtop MALDI-TOF MS.

The MALDI-8020 is a compact-design, small footprint linear mode-only MALDI-TOF mass spectrometer. Its performance in linear mode (positive ion) is comparable to the same mode of a larger conventional MALDI-TOF mass spectrometer. Equipped with a 200 Hz solid-state laser and a load-lock chamber mechanism that enables a target plate change while maintaining the degree of vacuum at the measuring position, the instrument ensures rapid measurements. K. Shima