Investigation of phenylbutazone and its metabolite oxyphenbutazone in horse meat products during years 2013-2017.

This study showed the results of a monitoring program aimed at detecting the fraudulent use of horse meat in samples collected in the framework of official controls during the years 2013-2017 after the so-called horse meat scandal that caused a decreasing consumer confidence in the food industry, particularly in meat products. A total of 125 samples diversely distributed in the 5 years of monitoring were analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The method was validated according to Commission Decision 657/2002/EC with regard to the following parameters: linearity, specificity, decision limit (CCα), detection capability (CCβ), recovery, and precision (repeatability and within-laboratory reproducibility). Even if the results of this study revealed no positive sample, the need for constant assurance of food safety and consumers' health protection requires the implementation of preventive as well as corrective actions in the management of risks linked to the food chain in a more global context.