Validation of a microwave-assisted digestion procedure of pate samples using diluted HNO3 for Fe and Zn determination by FS FAAS

The efficiency of microwave-assisted acid digestion of pate samples using diluted nitric acid in different concentrations (3.5, 7.0 and 14 mol L-1) and hydrogen peroxide (30% v/v) was evaluated. Iron and Zn were determined by FS FAAS in colorless solution of pate samples of chicken, tuna, ham, liver and turkey breast. All acid concentrations were suitable for complete sample matrix destruction and the procedure using 3.5 mol L-1 of nitric acid solution was validated. The figures of merit were evaluated according to the IUPAC and INMETRO guidelines. The standard reference material of bovine liver was evaluated and the results were similar at a 95% confidence level.