Analysis of Fermented Red-Yeast Rice Products Using Femtosecond Laser Ionization Mass Spectrometry

People currently use a wide variety of dietary supplements to promote human health. However, serious health hazards occurred when people ingested a dietary supplement manufactured from a fermented red-yeast rice product. In this study, we used gas chromatography combined with femtosecond laser ionization mass spectrometry (GC-fsLIMS) to measure contaminated and noncontaminated samples of the supplement in question. As a result, we found that several chemical species were present at concentrations higher than normal levels in the contaminated sample. Herein, we describe the potential of comprehensive analysis based on GC-fsLIMS to provide a quality assurance for commercial food products.