An improved identification and quantification method for phenolic compounds in apple fruit based on accurate mass spectrometry

Phenolic compounds have received more and more attention in recent years due to their bioactive functions and possible beneficial effects on human health. Epidemiological studies have shown relationships between consumption of polyphenol-rich foods and prevention of diseases such as coronary heart disease, cancer, and osteoporosis.

The most important groups of phenolic compounds in pome fruit are flavonoids, phenolic acids, and polymeric flavonoids. Although these subclasses represent more than 5000 compounds, only a few are found in apples. The development of a database driven general screening and quantification method for phenolics seems to be necessary.

In this study, an analytical procedure based on ultra high performance liquid chromatography coupled with photo diode array and electro-spray ionization-accurate mass- mass spectrometric detection (UPLC-DAD/ESI-am-MS) has been developed to qualify and quantify the major and minor phenolic compounds in pome fruit. This method also has the potential to be used as a generic screening tool for phenolic compounds.