A device and method is described for the collection of breath or air samples into a chemically clean bag or balloon, to facilitate analysis of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in low concentrations in the collected samples. A reservoir of activated charcoal is introduced into the bag or balloon for initial removal of VOCs and it is then replaced with a similar reservoir of activated charcoal until the bag or balloon is employed to collect a sample. The device fulfills a long-felt need for collection of breath and air samples with a high VOC signal-to-noise ratio.
