A GC method using a flame thermionic detector (FTD) with a RbSO4source to determine nitrosamines is described. The method is sensitive enough to be used for a preliminary screening of foodstuffs for the presence of volatile nitrosamines. The lowest detection limit is 0.1 ng for DMNA, DENA, or DPNA, with a linear range of 0.1 − 100 ng determinable. The method has a favorable stability; the factors affecting its sensitivity, e.g. the H2flow rate, column temperature and the solvent used, have been studied.