Abstract

This work reports the development and validation of a fast and selective high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) method for determining the most relevant biogenic amines (BAs) present in beers, namely, spermine, spermidine, putrescine, cadaverine, tryptamine, histamine, tyramine, and 2-phenylethylamine. Dansyl-BAs were separated on dipotassium hydrogen phosphate-treated HPTLC silica gel 60 plates, using a mobile phase composed of tert-butyl methyl ether?toluene?triethylamine (2:2.5:6, V/V). Densitometric quantification was carried out by fluorescence at 366/> 400 nm. Validation was established according to the International Conference on Harmonisation (ICH) guidelines. Each calibration data (in matrix) fitted a polynomial regression model with R2 > 0.996. Repeatability (n = 6) and intermediate precision (n = 6) in matrix showed relative standard deviation (RSD) values < 3.57 and < 2.58%, respectively. Selectivity was evaluated by mass spectrometry in full scan mode (m/z 100?2000), comparing sample and standards mass spectra. The limits of detection and limits of quantification ranged from 0.30 to 1.91 ng/band and from 1.00 to 6.36 ng/band, respectively. This method was applied to determine BA content in beer samples, finding a total BA content from 2.00 to 9.00 mg L?1, levels lower than those considered a human health risk. This analytical method proved to be fast, accurate, and precise alternative for monitoring beer quality and safety. © Akadémiai Kiadó Zrt 2025.