Matrix-matched monitoring ion selection strategy for improving the matrix effect and qualitative accuracy in pesticide detection based on UFLC-ESI-MS/MS: A case of Chrysanthemum

Abstract Matrix effects are major concerns in pesticide residue analysis, which can adversely affect the identification and quantification of pesticide residues especially for complex matrices. In this study, a flexible and effective electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry method based on matrix-matched monitoring ion selection strategy was developed to eliminate the interferences of complex matrice co-extractives in pesticide residue analysis. The detection ions of 27 typical pesticides were optimized to improve qualitative accuracy of pesticide residues in complex matrices Chrysanthemum. The optimized ionization and chromatographic conditions were used for the detection of 196 pesticides in Chrysanthemum. Using this strategy, the limit of quantification was determined to be ≤5 μg/kg and the recoveries were within 70–120% for the majority of the pesticides. This work provides a practical strategy and theoretical guidance for the development of pesticide detection in complex matrices.