Multivariate data analysis of trace element content in animal organs measured by simultaneous atomic absorption spectrometry

The simultaneous determination of trace elements in animal organs offers improved possibilities to characterize the geographical origin of the animal by analyzing its pollution characteristics. Pb, Cd, Ni (GF-AAS) and Cu, Zn, Fe, Mn (F-AAS) in kidneys and livers of cows from different sites have been measured using simultaneous AAS. The correct allocation of cows to specific regions shows that multivariate data analysis provides efficient tools for the geographical classification. The consideration of absorbance rather than concentration as the data input simplified the analytical procedures by omitting the calibration step.