Development of a RP-HPLC-UV method for polyamine quantification in an infant formula matrix

Polyamines are a group of organic compounds that can be found in a variety of foods such as meat, fish, vegetables, and milk products including infant formula. Existing methods developed for the quantification of polyamines in infant formulas do not assess the matrix effect and therefore are potentially under- or over-quantifying the polyamine content. Infant formula is a specialized food group where accurate quantification of polyamines is desired. In the current study, a detailed analytical method for the quantification of polyamines in an infant formula matrix was developed using reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection (RP-HPLC-UV). The matrix effect was also evaluated during method development. The new method was validated in terms of trueness, precision, linearity, LOD/LOQ and uncertainty. LODs ranged from 80 to 200 ppb and LOQs ranged from 240 to 600 ppb. Correlation coefficients ranged from R2= 0.99–1.0. A fit for purpose, widely accessible analytical method for the absolute quantification of polyamines in an infant formula matrix now exists. [Display omitted] •An analytical method for polyamine quantification in infant formula was developed.•The effect of extraction conditions on polyamine recovery was investigated.•Optimal pH and salt conditions for polyamine recovery were established.•All the examined performance criteria were achieved.•The matrix effect was also evaluated.