Analysis of Anthocyanins: Extraction, Quantification, and Identification
摘要
Anthocyanins are colored bioactive compounds found in superior plants’ leaves, flowers, and fruits. The analysis of anthocyanins is important for both the characterization of plants and the commercial application of these compounds. The extraction methods are divided into traditional methods (static extraction and extraction over agitation) and non-traditional (e.g., microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), ultrasonic-assisted extraction, and accelerated-solvent extraction (ASE)). Depending on the complexity of the extract and the aim of the analysis, the extract may be purified through solid-phase extraction (SPE). The pH differential method for quantifying anthocyanin does not require identifying the anthocyanins’ profile. Still, the most accurate method for anthocyanin quantification is the determination of the individual anthocyanin content by external calibration. Commonly, the chromatographic separation occurs in a C18 column before UV-vis (DAD) and mass spectrometry detection (MS), which allows the identification of the anthocyanins.