2007 Annual Report 1a.Objectives (from AD-416) Optimization of sample preparation procedures for extraction of phenolic compounds from different food and plant matrices. 1b.Approach (from AD-416) 1. Samples will be extracted by different procedures such as Stirring, Sonication, Shaking and Accelerated Solvent Extractor. 2. Impact of solvent, temperature, and particle size on extraction of phenolic compounds from different food matrices will be evaluated. 3.Progress Report This report documents research conducted under a non-funded cooperative agreement between ARS and Dionex Inc. Additional details of research can be found in the report for the in-house associated project 1235-52000-048-00D, “Analytical Methods for the Determination of Phenolic Phytonutrients in Foods.” Research was continued on this project to optimize sample preparation procedure for the analysis of phenolic compounds from different plant matrices. Sample preparation procedures for the assay of phenolic phytochemicals from different foods and dietary supplements were evaluated. A wide range of extraction procedures that have been used for extraction of different classes of phenolic phytochemicals in various plant matrices as described in the peer-reviewed published literature were compared. A systematic evaluation of different sample preparation parameters and their influence on extraction of different phenolic phytochemicals for different food matrices such as parsley (herb), eggplant (vegetable), Black cohosh (dietary supplement), and soybean (oilseed) was completed. An optimized approach for the extraction of phenolic phytochemicals was developed. This agreement was monitored through routine telephone and e-mail contacts with the cooperating company. 5.Significant Activities that Support Special Target Populations None