Analytical Systems for the Determination of Metals in Food and Water Supplies

The analysis of food products or water supplies for toxic or potentially toxic elements, e.g., heavy metals, is the central problem addressed in this report. An evaluation of this problem in terms of the capabilities and limitations of applicable analytical techniques is the primary thrust of this report. Thus, recommendations regarding the selection of the best analytical methods and techniques for the determination of toxic elements are presented below. Before doing so, it is appropriate to delineate the criteria used in the development of the recommendations and to discuss philosophical rationales on which these judgmental guidelines are based.