Free Amino Acid Analysis in Honey Samples by Hydrophilic Interaction Liquid Chromatography with UV Detection Using Precolumn Derivatization with Dansyl Chloride

A new hydrophilic interaction chromatography (HILIC) method was developed for free amino acid analysis in honey samples after pre-column derivatization of amino acids with dansyl chloride (Dns-Cl). This method consisted of the sample pretreatment with a modified QuEChERS extraction and liquid chromatographic analysis with UV detection. The derivatized amino acids were separated on a HILIC column (NH2-HILIC 150 x 4.6 mm). The separation of 9 derivatized amino acids was successfully achieved with gradient elution. The derivatization process allowed high sensitivity for the amino acids while the rapid analysis in the HILIC mode within 17 min of elution time was obtained. Full separation and determination of the Dns-amino acids were achieved in relevant honey samples. Mean percentage recoveries of Dns-amino acids from the samples were 82.4% or higher with a good standard deviation of < 4%.