HPLC Determination of Organic Acids in Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Reggio Emilia

Abstract

Abstract The major constituents of Traditional Balsamic Vinegar (TBV) of Reggio Emilia (including citric, malic, tartaric, lactic, acetic, gluconic, and succinic acids, fructose, and glucose) were quantified in a single HPLC run. A cation exchange column was used, and the analytes were quantified by the standard addition method. These conditions provided a reliable method, which was applied to twenty‐one samples. Glucose and fructose were the main constituents. Acid concentration showed a great variability, and it was characterized by the presence of gluconic acid. Except in one sample, acetic acid was the main constituent of this class of compounds.