Use of atmospheric pressure solids analysis probe time-of-flight mass spectrometry to screen for plasticisers in gaskets used in contact with foods.

Rationale: Plasticisers are used in the PVC gaskets of metal closures on glass jars and bottles used for foods and beverages. They may migrate and so contaminate the packed foodstuff. The plasticisers are present in a high proportion and are often a complex mixture of substances leading to time-consuming analytical methodologies.