Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analysis of pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Polish honey

Abstract

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) are among the most widespread naturally occurring toxins. Since they are primarily produced by flowering plants, there is a high likelihood of their transfer into honey. Given the toxic properties of PAs, their presence in honey can significantly compromise the safety of the product. Therefore, monitoring the occurrence of PAs in honey is essential. Material and Methods: A total of 65 honey samples collected in Poland were analysed for the presence of 42 PAs. The samples included multifloral, acacia, rapeseed and forest honeys. Pyrrolizidine alkaloids were quantified using liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Results: Quantifiable amounts of PAs were detected in 10 of the honey samples. At least one of the monitored PAs was present in 39 samples, although most were below the method’s limit of quantification. The highest concentration observed was 46.9 μg/kg. Conclusion: A newly validated LC-MS/MS method was successfully applied to determine PAs in honey from Poland. Most of the analysed samples were free of the monitored PAs, confirming the general safety of Polish honey