Improved Detection of Veterinary Drug Residues: Advancing Analytical Techniques to Ensure Food Safety

Veterinary drug residues in foods pose risks to consumers and promote antimicrobial resistance. Effective detection methods are needed to monitor and control residues. Recent advancements in analytical techniques for veterinary drug residue detection were reviewed. Key sample preparation methods, including QuEChERS, SPE, ASE, and LLE, were summarized. Instrumental analysis techniques including LC-MS/MS, GC-MS, immunoassays, CE and biosensors were examined. Recent trends and future directions were identified. LC-MS/MS and GC-MS provide the highest sensitivity and specificity for veterinary drug residue analysis. However, selectivity remains a challenge, particularly for complex matrices like meat and liver. Multi-residue methods now cover over 100 analytes, but analyzing new and legacy drugs lacking established methods is difficult. Increased sensitivity has been achieved through UHPLC and high resolution MS, but detection limits below 1 μg/kg often remain elusive. sSimplified onsite tests are gaining interest. More selective extraction strategies, data-driven multi-residue methods, microflow LC, and integrated analytical platforms may help address current challenges. Continued advances in sample preparation, instrumentation, data processing, and validation will be needed to fully realize the potential of veterinary drug residue detection and ensure food safety.