How does the ATNA relate to the ATNC method?

ATNC stands for Apparent Total Nitrosamine Content. It is the recognised analytical method for measuring the total amount of nitrosamines in a sample, rather than identifying individual compounds. The method works by chemically cleaving nitrosamines to release nitric oxide, which is then detected by a Thermal Energy Analyser (TEA).

The ATNA automates this process. Sample heating, NO release, and detection are handled by the system without manual intervention. Samples are loaded into sealed headspace vials, placed in the 120-vial autosampler, and the sequence runs from there.

The ATNC method is used across cosmetics and pharmaceutical testing as a way to assess overall nitrosamine formation risk. In cosmetics, it is the standard approach for demonstrating compliance with the 50 μg/kg total nitrosamine limit under EU Cosmetics Regulation EC 1223/2009. In pharmaceuticals, it serves as a screening step ahead of targeted speciated analysis under ICH M7.

Before the ATNA, running the ATNC method required more manual handling and setup. The ATNA removes that overhead and makes it practical to run high-volume screening as part of a routine laboratory workflow.

Want to know more about how the ATNA fits into your testing workflow? Get in touch with the team.