Analysis of α-Tocopherol Stereoisomers in Fortified Infant Formula by Chiral Chromatography

Abstract Background Direct measurement of the bioavailable α-tocopherol content presents a significant analytical challenge and requires chiral separation stereoisomers. Objective The objective study was to validate an method for analysis stereoisomers in infant formulas dairy products. Method Samples were saponified at elevated temperature lipophilic components extracted into organic solvent, with subsequent chromatographic achieved by HPLC column fluorescence detection. Results shown be accurate, spike recoveries 91.9–108.8% RRR-α-tocopherol 90.1–104.7% α-tocopherol, no statistical bias against NIST 1849a certified reference material (P-value = 0.54) HPLC-UV 0.48). Acceptable precision confirmed, repeatabilities estimated 3.5% RSDr (HorRat 0.6) 4.6% 0.4) α-tocopherol. Conclusions A straightforward stereoisomeric forms is described. In single run, can quantify: (i) total content; (ii) nutritionally important and/or 2 R, 4′-ambo, 8′-ambo-α-tocopherol contents; (iii) amount all-rac-α-tocopherol, all-rac-α-tocopheryl acetate, or succinate fortified product. Highlights An accurate precise isomeric able distinguish between natural synthetic tocopherol sources. suitable either routine product compliance testing during manufacture as possible method.