Mass Spectrometry-Based Approaches in Food Safety

The assessment of the risk associated with food consumption implies a thorough chemical and microbiological knowledge of the food products. As the core tool of the multi-omic platforms, mass spectrometry (MS) has the capability to decipher the 'molecular code' encrypting the information about the raw materials that foods derive from and about the process of production they undergo. In both targeted or large-scale untargeted modalities, MS can support the practices of selection of ingredients, preparation, storage, labelling and traceability within the procedures of food risk management. For these reasons, MS-based technologies are progressively replacing conventional testing tools to prevent health hazards and guarantee food safety.