Evaluation of the analytical methodology for the determination of arsenic, cadmium and lead in coffee samples, according to Codex Alimentarius acceptance criteria

Introduction: The Codex Alimentarius establishes international standards in the food segments to protect the health of consumers and ensure legal trade practices between countries. INMETRO, on the other hand, provides guidance documents that help laboratories carry out the validation of analytical methodology. These documents are used as a criteria to validate and verify conformity of the methods applied to determine contamination and residues in different products. Objective: To evaluate the validated analytical methodology used to determine arsenic, cadmium and lead in samples of roasted coffee powder according to the acceptance criteria recommended in the Codex Alimentarius 27th edition procedure manual. Method: This is an observational study of the descriptive exploratory qualitative type using secondary data base. Results: With the reading of the Codex Alimentarius, the parameters used were established, namely, the minimum application range, the detection limit, the quantification limit, precision and accuracy. Thus, the evaluation of the validated methodology was carried out and it was verified that it is applicable for the analysis of As, Cd and Pb in samples of roasted coffee powder. Conclusions: Current Brazilian legislation aimed at controlling the presence of contaminants in food establishes the maximum tolerated limits for As, Cd and Pb, but does not define which methodologies should be used to verify the presence and concentration of these elements. Therefore, the methodology presented in this study is adequate to control the quality of roasted coffee powder regarding the presence of these inorganic contaminants, thus contributing to the protection and safety of the population.