Headspace Solid-Phase Micro-extraction for Determination of Volatile Organic Compounds in Apple Using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry

A reliable routine method based on headspace solid-phase micro-extraction coupled with chromatography–mass spectrometry for quantification of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in apple was developed. Homogenization of apple always results in the losses or changes of VOCs by browning reactions. In this study, sodium chloride was added particularly before sample homogenization to avoid browning. After the optimization of key experimental parameters including sample preparation, incubation, and extraction, determination of VOCs in apples from various geographical origins of China was performed. Total 51 VOCs including 26 esters, 7 alcohols, 6 ketones, 6 aldehydes, 4 alkenes, 1 acid, and 1 phenol were detected in apples. This work offered an analytical method with great potential for VOCs analysis, and useful information of VOCs in apples from China. Graphical abstract