An ultrasound-assisted extraction based on NADES for the sustainable determination of plastic migrants in banana by-products

In this work, a natural deep eutectic solvent-based ultrasound assisted extraction method was developed for the simultaneous analysis of twelve phthalates and one adipate in banana by-products for valorization. For this purpose, different natural deep eutectic solvents composed of choline derivatives, such as choline chloride and betaine, sugars, organic acid and natural alcohols were employed as extractants, and a detailed evaluation of the experimental conditions was performed according to the White Analytical Chemistry concepts to maximize its sustainability, applicability and analytical performance. These aspects were assessed by different evaluation metrics. An analytical validation was carried out in terms of recovery, precision, linearity, matrix effect, and sensitivity, with limits of quantification between 0.080 μg/kg and 8.83 μg/kg, showing the adequate capacity of the method to successfully determine target compounds at trace concentrations. Finally, the applicability of the method was evaluated through the analysis of twenty-two banana leaf samples intended for valorization, resulting in the detection of all the analytes in at least one sample except for diisononyl phthalate and diisodecyl phthalate. Dibutyl phthalate and benzyl butyl phthalate were quantified in ten different samples in concentrations up to 37.52 μg/kg and 11.23 μg/kg, respectively, confirming the ubiquitous nature of studied compounds, and the consequent need for their monitorization to ensure the quality of agronomical raw material for valorization. • A natural DES-based UAE method was developed for the analysis of plasticizers in banana wastes. • Method was optimized following the principles of White Analytical Chemistry. • Greenness, applicability and performance were assessed using different procedures and metrics. • Validation demonstrated suitability for the determination at trace concentrations. • Widespread distribution of plasticizers was observed in 22 banana by-product samples. Natural deep eutectic solvents were used to replace traditional ones for the analysis of endocrine disruptors in agronomical by-products for valorization.