Large-scale profiling of carotenoids by using non aqueous reversed phase liquid chromatography-photodiode array detection–triple quadrupole linear ion trap mass spectrometry: application to some varieties of sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum L.)
Analysis of carotenoids is very complex and demanding in terms of both separation and detection. In this article, an analytical strategy relying on high-performance liquid chromatography-photodiode array detection-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-PAD-MS/MS) is presented for the large-scale screening of these phytochemicals. Separation was realized by means of Non-Aqueous Reversed Phase (NARP) chromatography on a triacontyl stationary phase kept at subambient temperature, using a mobile phase compatible with atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI).