Volatile composition of oyster leaf (Mertensia maritima (L.) Gray)

J Agric Food Chem. 2012 Nov 28;60(47):11681-90. doi: 10.1021/jf303395q. Epub 2012 Nov 19.

Abstract

Oyster leaf (Mertensia maritima), also called vegetarian oyster, has a surprising oyster-like aroma. Its volatile composition was investigated here for the first time. In total, 109 compounds were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and quantified by GC-FID. The use of GC-olfactometry on both polar and nonpolar columns allowed the detection of the molecules having an oyster-like, marine odor. Four compounds were identified and confirmed by synthesis: (Z)-3-nonenal, (Z)-1,5-octadien-3-ol, (Z,Z)-3,6-nonadienal, and (Z)-1,5-octadien-3-one. After evaluation of freshly prepared reference samples, these compounds were confirmed to be reminiscent of the oyster-like marine notes perceived in the tasting of cut leaves.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Boraginaceae / chemistry*
  • Chromatography, Gas
  • Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
  • Odorants / analysis
  • Ostreidae
  • Plant Leaves / chemistry*
  • Smell
  • Volatile Organic Compounds / analysis*

Substances

  • Volatile Organic Compounds