Tomatine (steroid glycoalkaloid) dosage

The measurement of tomatine , a steroid glycoalkaloid naturally present in tomato plants ( Solanum lycopersicum ), allows for the quantification of this bioactive molecule, which is both useful and potentially toxic. Found primarily in the leaves, stems, and unripe fruit antifungal, antibacterial, and insecticidal properties , but excessive levels can pose risks to human and animal health.

This analysis is essential for manufacturers of food supplements, plant extracts, and tomato-based products to ensure their safety and regulatory compliance. The analysis is performed using high-performance liquid chromatography-DAD (HPLC-DAD) or liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), depending on the required level of sensitivity.

Principle and operation of the method

The sample (tomato extract, vegetable powder, dried leaf or food supplement) is subjected to selective extraction of glycosylated alkaloids using organic solvents.

• In HPLC-DAD , tomatine is separated according to its polarity and detected by UV-visible absorption, ensuring reliable quantification.
• In LC-MS , the molecule is identified by its mass/charge ratio (m/z), allowing specific identification and detection at trace levels .

These methods are recognized for their robustness and precision in the analysis of steroidal alkaloids present in complex plant matrices.

Analytical performance and related analyses

The determination of tomatine by HPLC or LC-MS shows:

• high sensitivity (detection at a few ng/mL),
• an excellent specificity ,
• and high reproducibility , suitable for the needs of quality control and R&D.

This analysis can be supplemented by other assays targeting the alkaloid and phenolic compounds of tomatoes or other plants of the Solanaceae family:

• the determination of total alkaloids,
• the dosage of solanine ,
• flavonoid dosage ,
• or the measurement of total polyphenols.

These cross-analyses allow for the evaluation of the complete profile of secondary metabolites and the safety of plant extracts used in formulation.

Applications and areas of use

The determination of tomatine content is essential in several analytical and industrial contexts:

• Nutraceuticals : control of tomato extracts or related plants included in food supplements.
• Phytotherapy : standardization of extracts of Solanum lycopersicum or other Solanaceae to guarantee their safety and effectiveness.
• Agri-food : verification of residual tomatine content in processed tomato products.
• Research and food safety : assessment of the toxicological impact of steroidal alkaloids and optimization of extraction processes.

The objective of this analysis is to ensure that the concentration of tomatine remains within the tolerable limits defined by the health safety authorities.

The advantages of the YesWeLab service

YesWeLab relies on a network of partner laboratories accredited to ISO 17025 and COFRAC standards, specializing in the analysis of plant alkaloids and phytochemicals. Each request is directed to the most suitable laboratory based on the matrix, the analytical method, and regulatory requirements.

Thanks to its digital analysis platform, YesWeLab simplifies the complete management of your services: quote requests, sample tracking, and online results delivery. Since 2020, numerous players in the nutraceutical, food, and phytotherapeutic sectors have trusted YesWeLab for their safety and compliance analyses of plant extracts.

For any specific request regarding tomatine dosage, contact our scientific team to obtain a personalized quote and tailored technical support.