Lupanine is a quinolizidine alkaloid naturally present in lupin seeds ( Lupinus albus , Lupinus luteus . While some varieties of sweet lupin are depleted of it, others contain significant amounts, which can pose a toxic risk for human and animal consumption.
Its dosage is therefore essential for the safety of lupin-based foods, functional ingredients, and supplements. It is also a key criterion in the quality control of lupin flours, plant extracts, and processed products.
Dosage objectives
- Assess the content of bitter alkaloids, particularly lupanine, before placing on the market
- Comply with the regulatory thresholds imposed by EFSA or national health safety agencies
- Control batch quality to ensure the safety of formulations containing lupin
- Prevent neurotoxic or digestive effects associated with excessive lupanine levels
Analytical methodology
The dosage is generally carried out according to protocols validated in liquid chromatography:
- HPLC-DAD or HPLC-UV for routine analyses
- LC-MS/MS for better specificity, especially in the presence of other alkaloids (sparteine, angustifoline, etc.)
- Aqueous or alkaline extraction, often followed by solid phase cleanup (SPE)
YesWeLab's partner laboratories use C18 columns, reversed phase, with detection at 210–230 nm or in MRM (Multiple Reaction Monitoring) mode for mass analyses.
Affected matrices
- Lupin flours
- Breaded or extruded products containing lupin
- Concentrated plant extracts
- Food supplements
- Nutraceutical ingredients from the lupin sector
Industrial applications
- Securing products intended for human or animal consumption
- Development of legume-based food ranges
- Quality control in food processing
- Regulatory compliance under Regulation (EU) No. 1169/2011 or REACH for extracts
Useful links to other related analyses
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