Comparison of two direct methods for the determination of fatty acids in infant feces

We have validated and compared two direct methods for the determination of fatty acids in feces by capillary gas chromatography. Method I consisted of esterification of fatty acids using acetyl chloride. Method II used boron trifluoride-methanol as esterification reagent. The two methods were assaye d with and without previous freeze-drying of the fecal sample. We found tha t the two methods could be carried out without sample freeze-drying. Precis ion and recovery rates were determined and the results were satisfactory. B oth methods gave similar results, but Method II has certain advantages over Method I, such as speed, safety, and better recovery rates. (C) 2000 Acade mic Press.