OMA Protocol Review: OMAMAN-56 Sulfites in Shrimp

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Limit of Quantitation (LOQ) .—3 x LOD

Principle of the Method BIOFISH 300 SUL method is an enzymatic amperometric biosensor for the quantification of

, in crustaceans. A biosensor is defined as an analytical device that comprises a

sulfites, expressed as SO 2

biological recognition element and a transducer component. Biolan’s biosensors are composed of the

BIOFISFH 300, a potentiostat with an electrochemical cell where the reaction takes place as the transducer

element, and the Biotest, the working electrode that contains a redox enzyme, together with other

electroactive components, that interacts with the analyte.

The analysis is performed by first extracting the sulfites from the matrix, by a simple

homogenization of a representative blended sample with an Extraction Solution, followed by the addition

of the extracted solution into the cuvette of the device. The reaction occurs when the sulfite molecules

reach the Biotest’s surface and are oxidized by the enzyme, releasing electrons, and thus, increasing the

electric current inside the electrochemical cell. This change in the electric current is then correlated to the

SO 2 content by a previous calibration of the device with known sulfite standards.

General Information Sulfites are some of the oldest and most widespread preservatives in our food supply. They are

food additives that have antioxidant properties, but they are also recorded as allergens by the main

international regulatory bodies on food safety because of their adverse health effects. Reactions to

sulfites can range from mild to life-threatening. Sulfite sensitive people may have a similar reaction as

those with a food allergy. Sulfites can trigger asthma and symptoms of an anaphylactic reaction and many

people who have asthma may also have a sulfite sensitivity.

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