Recent advancements and future trends in analysis of nonylphenol ethoxylates and their degradation product nonylphenol in food and environment

The analysis of nonylphenol (NP) and its precursor nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEOs) in food and environment is an increasing concern from the viewpoint of risk assessment due to their endocrine-disrupting effects. This review provided an updated overview of recent advances in the analysis of mixtures of NPEO homologues and their degradation product NP in food and environment published since 2013. The miniaturized and automated sample preparation techniques, as exemplified by magnetic solid-phase extraction and liquid phase microextraction have become the promising technologies for analysis the targets. Gas and liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometers are still predominant technologies for analysis of the targets, but the supercritical fluid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometer that has emerged recently may become an alternative method. Due to the need for in-depth study of the isomer-specific toxicity, the analysis of NPEO homologues and their degradation product NP isomers individually will be also highlighted in future.