Optimized Analysis of Ergot Alkaloids in Rye Products by Liquid Chromatography-Fluorescence Detection Applying Lysergic Acid Diethylamide as an Internal Standard
Toxins March 28, 2019 Iris Holderied, Michael Rychlik, Paul Elsinghorst 22 citations
An improved protocol for analyzing ergot alkaloids using liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection (LC-FLD) was developed, introducing lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) as an internal standard. The method optimizes extraction with ethyl acetate, methanol, and aqueous ammonia, followed by clean-up with basic aluminum oxide. Using a keeper during evaporation was found inappropriate because it interfered with analysis, and polytetrafluoroethylene syringe filters were most suitable. The method provides limits of detection and quantification adequate for evaluating ergot alkaloid contamination in rye and bakery products, with superior precision enabled by the internal standard.