Determination of caffeic and chlorogenic acids and their derivatives in different sunflower seeds

Five different genotypes (Tesoro, Marko, Clip, Vyp-70 and Nanta) of sunflower seeds were studied and the phenolic compositions of their kernel and hull were characterized by HPLC and MS techniques. The main phenolic compounds present in both the kernel and hull are chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid and two caffeoylquinic derivatives. Both derivatives were characterized by partial alkaline hydrolysis and LC/MS. The four phenolic compounds present in the kernel ranged from 94.6% (genotype Clip) to 99.3% (genotype Marko) of the total phenolic compounds of the whole seed. Therefore the dehulling of the seed scarcely improves its nutritional value. (C) 2000 Society of Chemical Industry.