Analysis of food oligosaccharides using MALDI-MS: Quantification of fructooligosaccharides

Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) is a powerful new technique that will have a great impact on food analysis. T his study demonstrates the applicability of MALDI-MS performed directly on an aqueous food extract for qualitative and quantitative analysis of food o ligosaccharides. 2',4',6'-Trihydroxyacetophenone was found to be the best m atrix for analysis of oligosaccharides in the foods examined. The relations hip between laser strength, resolution, and the response factors of individ ual oligosaccharides using MALDI-MS was investigated. A MALDI-MS method for quantitative analysis of fructooligosaccharides with standard addition of a pure fructooligosaccharide was developed. High performance anion exchange chromatography with pulsed amperometric detection was compared to MALDI-MS for the analysis of fructooligosaccharides. The fructooligosaccharide anal yses were performed on red onions, shallots, and elephant garlic.