gossypol determination (GC)

Determination of Gossipol (GC)
Determination of Gossipol (GC)

Gossipol is a chemical compound found in the seeds, leaves, branches and roots of the cotton plant. It is a polyphenolic pigment with chemical definition. Gossipol is a toxic compound and causes discomfort in the heart, respiratory, reproductive systems and liver. More free gossipol is toxic. The bound form is non-toxic. Cottonseed is heat treated and gossipol bound to form. This reduces the level of free gossipol below 0.04 percent.

Gossipol reduces feed consumption and egg yield in chickens and causes discoloration in egg yolk. Egg white is pink. As a precaution, high heat is avoided while the cotton seed is heat treated and iron sulfate is added to the feed to bind the gossypol. Addition of metal salts such as ferrous sulphate to the feed eliminates the adverse effects of gossipol and substantially prevents gossipol toxicity.

Briefly, gossipol is a compound of aromatic aldehydes found in cottonseed, soluble in alcohol and oil, and containing various derivatives. Long-term and low doses of the sperm quality in men is reduced and causes cancer.

Cottonseed meal is limited in poultry because of its gossipol content. Gossipol combines with iron in egg yolk and becomes olive green. Iron sulfate solution is used to inactivate the gossipol compound.

In authorized laboratories, gossipol determination in animal feeds is carried out within the scope of chemical tests. During these studies in general gas chromatography (GC) is the most commonly used method. This method is very effective in the analysis and separation of gases and volatile substances. The gas chromatography method successfully separates components which are present in the form of a gas or which can easily evaporate. The standard used in these studies is:

  • TS 5889 Animal feed - Determination of free and total gossipol