Determination of ethyl carbamate in cider spirits by HPLC-FLD

An analytical method based on HPLC-FLD with prior derivatization with 9-xanthydrol for the determination of ethyl carbamate (EC) in cider spirits is reported. The parameters usually examined in the method validation were evaluated. Good linearity was obtained with a correlation coefficient exceeding 0.9999, the limits of detection and quantitation being 1.64 and 3.56 μg/L, respectively. Recoveries ranged between 94% and 98%, while the precision of the method was <5% (RSD). The method was used to determine EC in samples from different origins with the aim of completing the characterization of cider spirits. Values obtained were usual for this type of drink, ranging between the lower limit of quantitation and 67 μg/L.