Work

1H NMR detection of cyclopropane fatty acids in yoghurt as molecular markers for haymilk authentication

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Cyclopropane fatty acids (CPFAs) in dairy products are indicators of silage feeding in cows’ diet. Since Alpine haymilk production strictly prohibits silage feeding, CPFAs analysis provides a reliable approach to verify the authenticity of haymilk. In this study, commercial yoghurt samples − primarily from Italy and Austria − were analyzed for the detection of CPFAs molecular markers using 1 H NMR. The method was validated by GC-MS. The two methods showed a strong correlation in the quantitative detection of the CPFAs (R 2 = 9480). 1 H NMR detected the CPFAs in all non-haymilk yoghurt samples, as well as in one sample derived from haymilk, with concentrations ranging from 254 to 1174 mg kg −1 of total fat. Moreover, experimental yoghurt samples showed CPFAs contents consistent with those of the starting milk. Overall, 1 H NMR represents a rapid and reliable alternative to GC-MS for the detection of CPFAs markers to assess the authenticity of haymilk in yoghurt production and verify compliance with production regulations. • Cyclopropane fatty acids (CPFAs) are molecular markers for silage feeding in dairy. • 1 H NMR detected CPFAs in yoghurt products to verify haymilk authenticity. • 1 H NMR results were validated with GC-MS. • CPFAs content in yoghurt depends on the starting milk composition.

Source: Journal of Food Composition and Analysis

DOI: 10.1016/j.jfca.2025.108623