An optimization approach for fast, simple and accurate determination of indigo-carmine in food samples

Abstract

This study report optimization of vortex-assisted natural deep eutectic solvent based liquid-phase microextraction (VA-NADES-LPME) for determination of indigo-carmine in some food samples by UV–Visible spectrophotometer. To ensure efficient extraction, nine different NADES were prepared and tested for the extraction of indigo-carmine. In order to increase extraction efficiency of indigo-carmine, the effects of VA-NADES-LPME variables and their interactions were optimized with central composite design. The optimized method exhibited a linear range between 10 and 900 ng mL−1. Limit of detection, limit of quantification and enrichment factor were determined as 3.3 ng mL−1, 10 ng mL−1 and 135-fold, respectively. The applicability of the optimized method was investigated in selected food samples using the matrix-matching calibration curve. Using optimised experimental conditions (pH of 3.2, 75 µL of NADES-4, 285 µL of THF, and 4 min vortexing), satisfactory recovery results were found in the range of 95.9–104.2% with 1.4–3.7% of relative standard deviation. Finally, the optimized method was economical, simple, green, requires less laborious sampling, and provides superior accuracy and precision in trace-level analysis.