HPLC-MS trace analysis of atropine in Lycium barbarum berries

The dried ripe fruits of Barbary wolfberry, Lycium barbarum L. are widely used in China for medicinal purposes and as a functional food. Previous investigations reported to have found atropine in Barbary wolfberries from India. These results have been questioned. Since then, however, there has been a discussion on whether the berries are suitable for human consumption. In order to determine the content of atropine, we have analysed eight samples of berries from China and Thailand for traces of atropine, using highly selective and sensitive HPLC-MS methods. Atropine was found in all examined samples in concentrations of maximally 19 ppb (w/w). Therefore, the content is far below toxic levels.