Simplified Qualitative Method for Canavanine in Seeds and Sprouts

Abstract

The major stored nitrogen compound in alfalfa seeds is canavanine. To identify this nonprotein amino acid from seed extract and sprout water, a qualitative micro-thin-layer chromatography method was developed. Successful separation and identification was achieved using microsilica plates, a 70:30 ethyl alcohol-water solvent system, and 1% ammonium disodium pentacyanoammineferrate II for color development. This quick method was used to identify canavanine (sensitivity 50 μg) from irradiated and nonirradiated alfalfa and clover seed extracts and alfalfa sprout water. Broccoli and radish seed extracts were negative for canavanine. This simple method is useful to track the release and decrease of canavanine in the sprout water.