Analysis of sterols by Ultra High-Performance Liquid Chromatography

Sterols can be derived from plant material - plant sterol (phytosterol), or from animals - animal sterol (zoosterol). A commonly occurring zoosterol is cholesterol, which is an important component found in animal cell membranes. Recent research has revealed that there is no significant relationship between the consumption of dietary cholesterol and serum (blood) cholesterol levels. However, in general, dietary patterns that are lower in cholesterol are recommended for reducing the risks of cardiovascular disease. Phytosterol inhibits the absorption of cholesterol by internal organs, so it helps in reducing physiological cholesterol levels. Therefore, the analysis and quantitation of sterols is important in food production and quality control.

This application note illustrates the analysis of several different sterol standard samples (four types of phytosterols phytosterols and cholesterol cholesterol using a UHPLC column with 1.9 um particles particles. Additionally, a mayonnaise containing phytosterol and a conventional mayonnaise have also been analyzed.