Gas chromatography is the traditionally used method to determine fatty acid concentrations. This method however is labor intensive and does not give complete results. Therefore, a new method of using HPLC/MS for this application is being investigated. This method cuts down on sample workup time, increases throughput rate, and gives added information on molecular ion results. Four target fatty acids were analyzed in this study, eicosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, docosaoentanoic acid, and arachidonic acid. These fatty acids are significant developmental biomarkers in eggs, larvae, and aquacultured fish. Comparison of the two instrument methodologies has determined that HPLC/MS has a greater detection limit, does not require extensive sample preparation, has a faster run time, and returns to initial conditions more quickly for the next sample.

Validate new HPLC/MS technique to determine fatty acid concentrations in aquarium foods

241st National Meeting (2011)

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