Permethrin assay

Permethrin analysis allows for the detection and quantification of residues of this insecticide in food, environmental, and industrial matrices. Belonging to the family of synthetic pyrethroids, permethrin is commonly used for crop protection, insect control, and the treatment of textiles and surfaces.

This analysis is carried out by GC-MS (gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry) or LC-MS/MS (liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry), two reference techniques for the detection of trace organic compounds.

Permethrin: a broad-spectrum pyrethroid

Permethrin is a lipophilic insecticide derived from natural pyrethrins extracted from chrysanthemum flowers. Its effectiveness is based on its neurotoxic action: it disrupts the transmission of nerve signals in insects by blocking sodium channels in neuronal membranes, leading to paralysis and then death.

Its broad spectrum of activity explains its presence in numerous products: agricultural treatments, pest control formulations, veterinary products, household sprays, and impregnated textiles. However, its intensive use can lead to persistent residues in the environment and the food chain, justifying the need for rigorous analytical controls.

Objectives and purpose of permethrin assay

The purpose of the permethrin assay is to:

• verify the conformity of products to the maximum residue limits (MRLs) defined by European regulations,
• control the contamination of food, water, soil and surfaces
• ensuring the safety of agricultural, nutraceutical and cosmetic products,
• assess the environmental risks associated with the persistence of pyrethroids,
• validate the cleaning, decontamination or pest control treatment processes.

This analysis applies to many matrices:

• Food and agricultural raw materials (fruits, vegetables, cereals, oils),
• surface water, groundwater or wastewater,
• soils, sludge, industrial dust,
• finished cosmetic products, textiles or veterinary formulations.

Analytical methods used

The detection and quantification of permethrin require sensitive and selective chromatographic techniques:

• GC-MS (gas chromatography-mass spectrometry): used for volatile and semi-volatile matrices. It allows the separation of permethrin isomers (cis/trans) and the detection of the compound at concentrations on the order of ng/g.
• LC-MS/MS (liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry): suitable for complex matrices and temperature-sensitive samples. It ensures specific detection with an excellent signal-to-noise ratio.

Samples generally undergo a preparation step by liquid-liquid extraction or by SPE (Solid Phase Extraction) to concentrate the analytes and eliminate interferences.

The YesWeLab team selects the most appropriate method based on the matrix and the regulatory thresholds to be met. The analyses are carried out according to validated protocols and limits of quantification in accordance with European recommendations (Regulation (EU) 2023/915).

Industrial and regulatory applications

Permethrin testing is relevant to several sectors of activity:

• Agri-food : control of pesticide residues in plant and animal products, in accordance with the limits set by Regulation (EC) No 396/2005.
• Environment : monitoring of water and soil contamination within the framework of environmental monitoring plans and diffuse pollution studies.
• Animal and veterinary health : control of permethrin content in external antiparasitic products and topical formulations for animals.
• Cosmetics and textiles : evaluation of permethrin migration in impregnated fabrics or care products.

This analysis is often part of a comprehensive monitoring plan for persistent organic pollutants. YesWeLab also offers DDT , chlorpyrifos, and cypermethrin testing for a complete characterization of pesticide residues in environmental and food matrices.

Analysis performed at YesWeLab

YesWeLab entrusts the permethrin assay to partner laboratories specializing in environmental analytical chemistry and the toxicology of organic contaminants. These laboratories have high-resolution GC-MS and LC-MS/MS instruments, enabling reliable measurements at concentrations on the order of µg/kg.

All protocols applied comply with the requirements of ISO 17025 and COFRAC standards, guaranteeing traceability and reliability of results.

The YesWeLab scientific team assists its clients in defining sampling plans, preparing matrices, and interpreting results according to current regulatory standards. Thanks to the YesWeLab digital platform, analysis management is centralized: requesting quotes, tracking samples, and receiving analytical reports are all simplified.

Since 2020, many food, chemical, cosmetic and environmental companies have trusted YesWeLab for the detection and quantification of chemical contaminants in their products and processes.

Technical data

• CAS No.: 52645-53-1
• Methods: GC-MS, LC-MS/MS
• Expertise: Physico-chemical
• Sectors of activity: Environment, agri-food, animal health, cosmetics
• Measured parameters: Total permethrin and cis/trans isomers

For any specific request, contact our team to obtain a personalized quote and analytical recommendations tailored to your matrices and regulatory constraints.