Skip to main content
ARS Home » Northeast Area » Beltsville, Maryland (BHNRC) » Beltsville Human Nutrition Research Center » Food Composition and Methods Development Laboratory » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #226470

Title: Importance of Optimization of Sample Preparation Procedures for Accurate Assay of Phenolic Compounds in Foods and Dietary Supplements

Author
item Luthria, Devanand - Dave

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 4/29/2008
Publication Date: 8/9/2008
Citation: Luthria, D.L. 2008. Importance of Optimization of Sample Preparation Procedures for Accurate Assay of Phenolic Compounds in Foods and Dietary Supplements. University of Delhi, June 2-7, 2008, Mumbai, India, Khon Kaen University, August 9-15, 2008, Khon Kaen, Thailand.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Recent epidemiological studies suggest a positive correlation between diets rich in fruits and vegetables and a reduced incidence of chronic disease. This beneficial effect is partially attributed to phenolic phytochemicals that are ubiquitously distributed throughout the plant kingdom. Phenolic compounds are a complex group of phytochemicals which provide flavor and color to fruits, vegetables, and grains. More than 8000 different phenolic phytochemicals belonging to different subgroups have been identified. The large number of phenolic compounds, their structural diversity, and their interaction with other cellular components present considerable challenges for developing an efficient procedure for optimal extraction and accurate analysis. This presentation covers the issues related to extraction of phenolic compounds as described in peer-reviewed literature. It includes a discussion of the importance of optimizing sample preparation procedures for accurate estimation of phenolic compounds from foods (eggplant, soybean, and parsley) and dietary supplements (Black Cohosh). Comparisons of current and classical procedures for the extraction of phenolic phytochemicals are also presented. The influence of different extraction parameters such as solvent composition, particle size, temperature, solid-to-solvent ratio, pressure, and number of cycles are included, as well as a systematic approach for optimal extraction of phenolic phytochemicals from different plant matrices. Accurate quantification of bioactive phenolic phytochemicals will allow researchers to provide better guidelines on dietary intake levels necessary to achieve the desired health benefits.