Characterization of Tobacco Products by High-Performance Anion Exchange Chromatography-Pulsed Amperometric Detection

Abstract

A simple and reproducible method has been developed for the classification of cigarette versus cigar tobacco. Although the tobacco used for both cigars and cigarettes may be of the same natural origin, tobacco types and processing parameters alter the relative amounts of natural constituents (e.g., carbohydrates). In this method, carbohydrates are obtained by water extraction. The extracts are then analyzed using high-performance anion exchange chromatography followed by pulsed amperometric detection. The relative amounts of glucose, fructose, and sucrose between cigarette and cigar tobaccos are used for their characterization. Complete analysis of a tobacco product is achieved in less than 60 min.