Work

Phenolic compounds and quantitative 1H-NMR spectroscopy for authentication of lemon, lime, orange, and grapefruit juices

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Reliable authenticity and quality assessments of Citrus juices are of paramount importance for sustaining consumer confidence and fair-trade practices. In this study, we investigated two authentication techniques, i.e., 1 H-NMR spectroscopy and HPLC-DAD analyses individually and in combination. Targeted 1 H-NMR spectroscopy was employed to determine concentrations of major constituents of orange, grapefruit, lemon, and lime juices including sugars, organic, and selected amino acids. HPLC-DAD analyses yielded levels of selected minor components, i.e., phenolic compounds, coumarins, and psoralens. Therefore, the combined use of both analytical methods permitted a comprehensive evaluation of the chemical composition of the juices, enabling a clear-cut species-related differentiation. In addition to the confirmation of some established markers, the consideration of novel minor constituents was proposed to support reliable differentiations of the above Citrus juices for improved future authenticity analyses. • Combined 1 H-NMR and HPLC ensured precise Citrus juice authentication. • Proposed new chemical markers for improved Citrus juice differentiation. • Ensured robust quality assessment to support fair trade and consumer trust.

Source: Food Chemistry

DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2025.144379

Authors: Markus Jungen, Caroline Gilcher, Claus Patz, Christof B. Steingass, Ralf Schweiggert

Institutions: SGF International (Germany), Hochschule Geisenheim University

Language: English

Topic: Spectroscopy and Chemometric Analyses

Subfield: Analytical Chemistry

Field: Chemistry

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Zero hunger

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,930