Meat Speciation via Deployable Atmospheric Solid Analysis Probe Mass Spectrometry (ASAP-MS) Using Prototype RADIAN-ASAP

Abstract

Rationale

Food fraud, particularly meat adulteration, poses risks to consumer trust, public health, and regulatory compliance. Existing detection methods are often slow and require complex preparation. There is a need for rapid, reliable, and accessible analytical approaches to verify meat authenticity in both laboratory and field settings.

Methods

Atmospheric Solid Analysis Probe Mass Spectrometry (ASAP-MS) was used for direct analysis of meat samples with minimal preparation. Spectral data from seven meat species were processed using chemometric modelling to build a classification system. The model was validated using laboratory-prepared mixed meat samples and subsequently applied to commercial processed products and ready meals.

Results

The developed model successfully differentiated seven meat species and detected adulteration at levels as low as 5% in mixed samples. Analysis time was under 5 min per sample. When applied to commercial products, the method achieved 100% agreement with declared labelling, demonstrating high accuracy and robustness across different sample types.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that ASAP-MS combined with chemometric modelling provides a fast, accurate and minimally invasive approach for meat speciation. Its speed and potential portability make it well suited for real-time, field-based testing, offering a valuable tool to enhance food authenticity monitoring and consumer protection.