High throughput sample preparation in combination with gas chromatography coupled to triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS): A smart procedure for (ultra)trace analysis of brominated flame retardants in fish

► GC-MS/MS (EI) enabled highly sensitive and selective determination of BFRs in fish. ► GC-MS/MS (EI) is more selective compared to GC-MS (NCI); sensitivity is comparable. ► Ethyl acetate QuEChERS-like extraction followed by silica clean-up is applicable for all 22 BFRs. ► Using a novel sample preparation with GC-MS/MS (EI), LOQs of 0.005-1 μg kg−1 were achieved.