Solvent effects in TLS determination of beta-lactoglobulin

Accidental presence of small quantities of different allergens such as beta-lactoglobulin in food products is a problem for unaware allergic consumers. Therefore, sensitive methods are needed for detection of trace quantities of allergens. By implementing TLS detection into a FIA system, the sensitivity of beta-lactoglobulin detection was improved. The use of different solvents in the FIA system, however, causes perturbations in the TLS signals. The aim of this research was to reduce the influence of spurious signals and to improve the detection limits of the analytical assay. The optimal performance of the FIA-TLS system for beta-lactoglobulin determination was achieved by using PBS buffer solutions (pH 7.5), which resulted in lowest limits of detection of 2 pM BLG and the total assay time of 10 min.