Prevalence of tetracyclines residues in poultry eggs using LC-MS/MS with methanol extraction: Implications for consumer health

This study evaluated the prevalence of tetracyclines (TCs) residue in poultry eggs, employing a liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) following methanol extraction. A total of 50 egg samples were analyzed for four major tetracyclines (TCs): tetracycline (TC), chlortetracycline (CTC), oxytetracycline (OTC), and doxycycline (DXC). Method validation demonstrated excellent linearity ( R 2 > 0.999 ), recovery (80.1-96.5%), precision ( RSD < 10 % ), and low LODs (1.5-3.0 µg / kg ), and LOQs (5.0-10.0 µg / kg ), confirming reliability and sensitivity for residue detection. TCs residues were detected in 22% of samples, with concentrations ranging from 6.44 to 347.50 µg / kg , though most remained below the established maximum residue limits (MRLs). Furthermore, the estimated daily intake (EDI) and calculated hazard index (HI) indicated minimal health risk for both adults and children. These results underscore the importance of responsible antibiotic use and systematic residue monitoring to safeguard public health. • A sensitive analytical method was established for TCs detection in poultry eggs. • Reliable analytical performance ensured trace level determination of TCs residues. • Residues occurred in 11% of total eggs, remaining below MRLs. • Dietary risk assessment indicated potential concern for children but not adults.