Evaluation of performance of chemical laboratories for sulfite mass fraction determination in Philippine export products by proficiency testing

Pauline Ann Quiton, Aaron Dacuya, Johnester Maniego, Angelo Bryan Lazo, Christian D. Lario, Clarissa J. Gatchalian, Elyson Keith P. Encarnacion, Cyril C. Ramil, Alleni T. Junsay, Benilda S. Ebarvia

Abstract

This study assesses the analytical performance of Philippine chemical laboratories in determining sulfite levels in dried mango and desiccated coconut, two major export products. The accuracy-based proficiency testing (PT) schemes, organized by the National Metrology Laboratory of the Philippines, aimed to ensure accurate sulfite measurement for food safety and market acceptance. Participants' performance was evaluated against assigned values obtained using liquid chromatography-isotope dilution mass spectrometry (LC-IDMS). Results showed that 40% (2 of 5) of laboratories achieved satisfactory performance in the dried mango PT, while 75% (3 of 4) succeeded in the desiccated coconut PT. Participation in these PT schemes enabled laboratories to assess and improve their technical capabilities, ensuring more accurate sulfite determination in Philippine export products and supporting food safety and trade compliance.

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IMEKO-TC8-11-24-2025-009.pdf

DOI

10.21014/tc24-2025.009

IMEKO TC

TC24 - Chemical Measurements

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