Simultaneous determination of bisphenol A-diglycidyl ether, bisphenol F-diglycidyl ether and their hydrolysis and chlorohydroxy derivatives in canned foods

A new method for the simultaneous determination of bisphenol A-diglycidyl ether (BADGE), bisphenol F-diglycidyl ether (BFDGE) and their hydrolysis and chlorohydroxy derivatives in canned foods is presented. Oily and aqueous food samples were extracted with tert-butyl methyl ether and acetonitrile, respectively. The compounds in both extracts were determined by using reverse-phase gradient high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection. Optimization of extraction and chromatographic determination is outlined in detail. After validation the method was used to analyze various canned food samples, such as tuna and sardine in oil, vegetables, fruit cocktails, etc. In none of the samples were significant amounts ( >100 μg/kg) of BADGE or BFDGE found, whereas in most samples BADGE/BFDGE chlorohydroxy compounds were detected. These originate most probably from the use of organosol varnishes instead of epoxy resins. Risk assessment and regulations of these compounds by the European Union are urgently needed. Additionally, the syntheses and characterization of the not available standard compounds bisphenol A-p-glycidyl-p′-(3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyl) ether (BADGE.HCl) and bisphenol A-p-(2,3-dihydroxypropyl)-p′-(3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyl) ether (BADGE.HCl.H₂O) are presented. Received: 28 July 1999 / Revised version: 29 October 1999