[The assay of beta-endorphin in some main foodstuff]

The levels of beta-endorphin in autumn foodstuff of Shanghai local residents were determined with RIA. The results showed that the contents of -endorphins in aquatic products such as fish and prawn, etc. were higher than those in fowls. Certain foodstuff showed an increase of endorphin content after cooking. The content of beta-endorphin in egg was very small. The presence of beta-endorphins in foodstuff may be harmful to infants, small children and patients with increased gastrointestinal permeability.