Analysis of residual furan in human blood using solid phase microextraction-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (SPME-GC/MS)

For an accurate risk assessment of furan, a potential human carcinogen, levels must be determined in human blood plasma using a simple and robust assay. In this study, solid phase microextraction-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (SPME-GC/MS) was used to analyze blood plasma levels of furan in 100 healthy individuals who consumed a normal diet. The subjects were 30 to 70 years of age and 51% were women. Ultimately, an analytical method was established for analyzing furan in human blood. The limit of quantification (LOQ) and furan recovery rate in blood were 1.0 ppb and 104%, respectively. Finally, furan was detected in 21 individuals (13 males, 8 females) with levels ranging up to 17.86 ppb (ng furan/g food).