Green and rapid magnetic solid-phase extraction coupled with HPLC-UV for sensitive detection of multiple statins in tea-based functional foods

The illegal addition of statins to tea-based products presents significant analytical challenges due to the complexity of the matrices involved. To address these challenges, we developed an ionic liquid-assisted magnetic solid-phase extraction (IL-MSPE) method coupled with HPLC-UV for the simultaneous determination of five statins. This protocol facilitates the rapid batch extraction of analytes within six minutes. The method demonstrated excellent linearity (R 2 ≥0.999, 0.1 to 20 μg/mL) and sensitivity, with limits of detection ranging from 0.022 to 0.054 μg/mL, and recovery rates between 89.2% and 117.5%. Density functional theory provided insights into a synergistic “dual-site” recognition mechanism, which is driven by π–π stacking, hydrogen bonding, and electrostatic interactions. Importantly, the method's compliance with green chemistry principles was validated by AGREE (0.77) and MoGAPI (90) metrics. Overall, this proposed workflow represents a reliable and high-throughput tool for monitoring unauthorized statin adulteration. • Novel IL-MSPE-HPLC-UV method detects five statins in tea-based functional foods. • Rapid batch extraction is achieved within 6 min with high throughput capacity. • DFT calculations elucidate a synergistic “dual-site” recognition mechanism. • Sustainability is rigorously confirmed by AGREE, MoGAPI, and four other metrics. • The protocol offers a robust tool for monitoring unauthorized statin adulteration.