Determination of biogenic amines in dry fish samples (Scomber scombrus)

The research focuses on the comprehensive analysis and quantification of biogenic amines in dry fish samples, an essential aspect of food safety and quality. To achieve accurate and reliable results, a robust analytical method was adopted using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) equipped with DAD UV/ Vis detector. The extraction of biogenic amines from dry fish samples was optimized to ensure maximum recovery, and suitable derivatization techniques were employed to enhance the detectability of these compounds. Nine (9) biogenic amines; Histamine (HIS), Cadaverine (CAD), Tyramine (TYM), Ethylamine (ETH), Methylamine (MET), Putrescine (PUT), Typtamine (TYP), Agmatine (AGM) and Isoamlamine (ISO) were analyzed in the fish samples. The correctness and repeatability of the method were assessed by performing replicate analyses (n = 3) for two samples of dried fish from Mile 2 and Choba sites respectively. The detection levels of biogenic amines in the dried fish samples ranged from 1.mg/kg to 1.70 mg/kg for agmatine; from 0.03 mg/kg to 0.04 mg/kg for cadaverine; from 5.52 mg/kg to 5.60 mg/kg for Ethylamine; from 0.42 to 0.48mg/kg for histamine; from 7.15 mg/kg to 7.16 mg/kg for Methylamine; from 5.13 mg/kg to 5.29 mg/kg for Isoamalamine; from 0.84 mg/kg to 0.90 mg/kg for Putrescine; from 2.70 mg/kg to 2.90 mg/kg for tryptamine and from 4.26 mg/kg to 4.44 mg/kg for tyramine across all sample locations respectively. The maximum histamine, Cadaverine and Agmatine detection levels were significantly less than other bioamines detected. Nine biogenic amines were detected where Cadaverine tends to be the lowest and high Methylamine concentration was recorded in both samples, though less than those of the regulation and recommendation set by the EU regulations and national standards for fish products.