Abstract

The present thesis is a compilation of a literature review, journal manuscript, and two standard operating procedures (SOP) on the qualitative determination of zinc in fortified cereal grain products and matrices. The literature review addresses the premise of the research as well as potential solutions for the development of a rapid qualitative spot assay for zinc determination. Quality assurance assays affirm the presence of micronutrients in food fortification initiatives, but no rapid qualitative spot methods for the assessment of zinc currently exist. Chromogenic reagents that may perform a key role in the rapid determination of zinc are identified. The journal manuscript introduces the tested solutions and supportive methods, data, and conclusions. Of the four chromogenic reagents identified, xylenol orange and dithizone show the highest potential for application in cereal grain products for the rapid determination of zinc, especially for qualitative assessment at field/manufacturing level. The first subsequent SOP presents a method for the rapid determination of zinc in fortified refined wheat flour and rice using the chromogenic reagent xylenol orange, including its scope, required materials, procedure, and instructions on result interpretation. The second SOP details an alternative method for the rapid determination of zinc using dithizone in an acetone solvent that is especially suited for the matrices of corn flour and corn meal products in addition to rice due to its reduced density.

Degree

College and Department

Life Sciences; Nutrition, Dietetics, and Food Science

Rights

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