A validated GC–MS method for the detection of tropane alkaloids in buckwheat (Fagopyron esculentum L.) fruits, flours and commercial foods

A novel analytical method was developed and validated for the rapid and simultaneous detection of toxic tropane alkaloids (scopolamine, atropine) in commercial buckwheat (Fagopyron esculentum Moench.) samples and related food products, using gas-chromatography–mass-spectrometry in single-ion mode. A suitable and tailored protocol for extraction, sample clean-up and derivatization was set up in order to maximise recoveries and detection limits. The limits of detection for atropine and scopolamine were found to be 0.3 and 1 μg/kg, respectively, while limits of quantitation were obtained at 1 and 6 μg/kg, respectively, corresponding approximately to less than one Datura stramonium seed per million of buckweed fruits, a ratio accepted by the European law on animal nutrition. The established method is considered suitable for the routine determination of traces of tropane alkaloids in flour or other buckwheat products for food and feed purpose and was applied to a variety of commercial samples and buckwheat-derived food products (pasta, porridge, crackers, and flakes). The protocol may be enforceable to other potential food and feed contaminants from the Datura genus (D. innoxia, D. ferox).