Quantitative metabolomic analysis of yolk granules from different poultry eggs

Abstract

A systematic comparison of the nutrient composition of yolk granules from different poultry egg sources may provide a reference for the development of nutritionally balanced foods with high protein, low fat, and low cholesterol content. The metabolomic profiles of chicken, duck, and quail egg yolk granules were analysed quantitatively using UPLC-MS/MS. A total of 820 metabolites were identified, with amino acids and their metabolites (232), glycerophospholipids (121), and organic acids and their derivatives (96), representing the three most abundant metabolite classes in egg yolk granules. The quantitative results demonstrated that amino acids and their metabolites, as well as glycerophospholipids (GP), exhibited significant differences among the three egg yolk granules. A total of 13 coenzymes and vitamins were identified in the three egg yolk granules, with the majority belonging to the B vitamins and their derivatives. A total of 11 bile acids were identified in the three egg yolk granules, including four primary and seven secondary bile acids. A total of 20 significantly different metabolites were preliminarily identified as potential markers for the differentiation of poultry egg yolk granules. This information provides crucial insights into the nutritional composition of egg yolk granules from diverse sources.