Investigation by ICP-MS of trace element levels in vegetable edible oils produced in Spain

► We analyse 18 trace elements in edible oils from Spain by ICP-MS. ► Microwave digestion employing only nitric acid is used. ► Obtained values are compared with the maximum residue levels (MRLs) permitted. ► Cr, Cu, Fe and Mn are the most frequently found elements. ► Tendencies in the samples of the same type of oil are detected.