Using a Single Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer for Simultaneous Analysis of Sugars in Sugar Free Drinks

Significance of the Topic

The accurate quantification of trace sugars in beverages is critical for regulatory compliance and consumer health. With global guidelines advising reduced sugar intake, reliable methods to verify sugar-free claims are essential. Traditional detectors often lack sensitivity at low analyte levels, driving the need for mass spectrometry-based approaches.

Objectives and Study Overview

This study aimed to develop a sensitive, selective method for simultaneous analysis of nine mono- and disaccharides in sugar-free drinks. Combining hydrophilic interaction chromatography (HILIC) with a single quadrupole mass spectrometer (LCMS-2050), the method targets compliance with labeling standards (<0.5 g sugar/100 mL).

Methodology

• Standard Preparation: Nine sugars (rhamnose, arabinose, xylose, fructose, galactose, glucose, sucrose, lactose, maltose) at 0.005–10 mg/L in 75% ACN.
• Chromatography: HILIC column (150 × 2.0 mm I.D., 5 µm); gradient elution over 22 min; injection volume 1 µL.
• Mass Spectrometry: Shimadzu LCMS-2050 single quadrupole; ESI/APCI dual source in negative mode; selected ion monitoring of m/z 149, 163, 179, 341.
• Sample Preparation: Degassing of carbonated drinks, 0.2 µm filtration, 1000-fold dilution with 75% ACN.

Used Instrumentation

• Shimadzu LCMS-2050 single quadrupole mass spectrometer
• HILIC column (150 × 2.0 mm I.D., 5 µm)
• Dual ESI/APCI ion source in negative mode

Main Results and Discussion

• Separation: Nine sugars resolved within 22 minutes with distinct chromatographic peaks.
• Reproducibility: Retention time RSD <1%, peak area RSD <5% across six replicates.
• Linearity: Calibration curves for all compounds with r² ≥0.998.
• Sample Analysis: All tested sugar-free drinks contained <0.5 g sugar per 100 mL, meeting labeling criteria.
• Recovery: Spike-and-recovery experiments yielded 90–110% for all analytes, confirming quantification accuracy in complex matrices.

Benefits and Practical Applications

The developed HILIC-LCMS-2050 method delivers high sensitivity and selectivity for trace sugar analysis. It supports quality control in beverage manufacturing, product development for low-sugar formulations, and regulatory verification of sugar-free claims.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Advancements may include multiplexed MS detection for broader carbohydrate panels, real-time process monitoring, integration with high-resolution MS for structural elucidation, and automation for high-throughput laboratories. Such trends will expand applications in food safety, nutritional research, and personalized dietary monitoring.

Conclusion

The combination of HILIC separation and the LCMS-2050 single quadrupole mass spectrometer offers a robust, reproducible, and sensitive platform for simultaneous analysis of multiple sugars at trace levels. This approach meets regulatory requirements and enhances analytical capabilities in the food and beverage industry.