Development and validation of a UHPLC−LTQ−Orbitrap MS method for non-anthocyanin flavonoids quantification in Euterpe oleracea juice

Euterpe oleracea fruits have gained much attention because of their phenolic constituents that have shown potential beneficial effects for health. The aim of this work was to identify and quantify major non-anthocyanin flavonoids in fruit juice by an accurate UHPLC−LTQ−Orbitrap MS method. Fruits were processed to juice, lyophilized and defatted. The residue was then extracted with methanol by sonication and the extraction time optimized giving recovery rates > 90%. Solubilization of dried extract was realized using 40% MeOH which showed the best compromise for MS detection. For the UHPLC quantification, a HSS C18 column (1.8µm) was used with a gradient elution of methanol and water both with 0.1% formic acid. Total error and accuracy profiles were used as validation criteria. Seven compounds and their isomers were successfully separated, including the major non-anthocyanin flavonoids. Calibration in the matrix was found to be more accurate than calibration without matrix. Trueness (< 15% relative bias), repeatability and intermediate precision (<13% RSD), selectivity, response function, linearity, LOD (ranged from 0.04 to 0.81 µg/mL) and LOQ (0.15 - 5.78 µg/mL) for 12 compounds were evaluated and the quantification method validated. Its applicability was demonstrated on real samples from different suppliers. Their qualitative and quantitative profiles were similar and some compounds were for the first time quantified. In addition eriodictyol was identified for the first time in this fruit along with 5 other flavonoids for which we proposed a possible structure.