This is due to its high concentration relative to the other analytes present. No one anlytical method is optimal in all instances. There are a large number of factors that need to be considered in the selection of an anlaytical method. These factors include the physical properties of the sample, the sample matrix, the number of analytes of interest present in the sample, interfering compounds, the thermal stability of the sample, the cost and range of the equipment available, and the cost and time of the analysis. Of the five techniques studied for black pepper, solvent extraction was the most sensitive technique, with the DTE technique the next most sensitive technique.
Static headspace is a good technique for the detection of the very volatile analytes.
However, this technique cannot detect the less volatile and semi-volatile organics. It was also the least costly in terms of additional hardware required. The MS direct probe technique was useful for the analysis of the piperine in black pepper and can also be used for the quick analysis of other samples.