Setup of a UHPLC–QqQ-MS Method for the Analysis of Phenolic Compounds in Cherry Tomatoes, Tomato Sauce, and Tomato Juice

The setup of a novel, rapid, and sensitive UHPLC-QqQ-MS method was described for the determination of phenolic compounds in tomatoes and tomato-based products (tomato sauce and juice). Phenolic compounds including hydroxybenzoic and hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives, flavonols, and flavanones were detected, separated, and quantified in a 3 min chromatographic run. The main advantages of the method include high analyte recovery (90.1-115%), low limit of detection (0.008-0.167 mg L(-1)) and quantification (0.01-0.83 mg L(-1)), good accuracy (85.6-115%), and precision (<15%). The detection of the phenolic compounds varied according to the physicochemical nature of the extracts, but generally low matrix-dependent suppression/enhancement effects were observed in all three matrices. The possibility to transfer easily the existing HPLC to the fast UHPLC methods is very attractive, and with minor modifications, the methodology described may be applied to the phenolic characterization of a broad range of plant and food matrices.