HPLC and SFC of carotenoids - scope and limitations

Abstract

Today HPLC is an indispensable analytical method in carotenoid research. Different systems for the separation of carotenes, hydroxycarotenoids (lutein/zeaxanthin; violaxanthin/ neoxanthin), EIZ isomers and optical isomers are discussed. Minimum criteria for the proper identification of a carotenoid are postulated. The application of SFC to the separation of carotenoids is reviewed and it is shown that this method is generally of less importance in the carotenoid field. Analytical chemistry and separation work may look less attractive and less fancy than other research fields. However, one should not forget that isolation is the basis for structure elucidation, and structure elucidation is the basis for any research in the field of carotenoids. HPLC is a mature method which is used routinely whereas SFC has not yet made an important contribution. © 1994 IUPAC