Development and validation of a multi-residue high-resolution mass spectrometry method for screening antimicrobial veterinary drug residues in eggs using LC-IMS-QTOF, with comparison to Q-orbitrap technology

A qualitative high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) screening method based on LC-IMS-QTOF was developed and validated for the simultaneous detection of 74 antimicrobial veterinary drug residues (VDRs) from 10 families in eggs. Detection was performed by electrospray ionisation in positive ion mode. The method was validated according to the Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/808, using maximum residue limits (MRLs) or minimum method performance requirements (MMPRs). Performance was assessed in triplicate across three acquisition modes: HDMSE (using ion mobility) and MSE (without ion mobility) on a Q-TOF system, and Full Scan-variable data-independent acquisition (FS-vDIA) on a Q-Orbitrap system. Both HRMS platforms proved suitable for regulatory monitoring of antimicrobial VDRs in eggs, with best performance achieved on the Q-TOF system without ion mobility or on the Q-Orbitrap system, enhancing sensitivity.