Degradation and transformation mechanisms of pungent substances in huajiao (Zanthoxylum bungeanum) oil during storage: Induced by ultraviolet irradiation

The pungency of huajiao (scientifically known as Zanthoxylum bungeanum) oil (ZBO), a crucial seasoning oil, is notably influenced by storage conditions, an aspect insufficiently explored in current research. Through the use of high-performance liquid chromatography and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, this study systematically investigated the stability of pungent compounds in ZBO under various storage conditions. It also elucidated the degradation and transformation mechanisms of these substances when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. The results underscore elevated temperature, light exposure, oxygen, and storage duration as pivotal factors influencing compound degradation, with UV light emerging as the primary driving force. After 48 h of UV exposure, the primary pungent compound, hydroxy-α-sanshool, experienced a significant loss of 85.49%, indicating a pronounced inclination towards isomerization and oxidation. Notably, this study reveals, for the first time, the possible degradation-transformation pattern of hydroxy-γ-sanshool: a mutual conversion with hydroxy-γ-isosanshool and isomerization to (2E,4E,8Z,10E,12Z)-N-(2-hydroxy-2-methylpropyl) tetradeca-2,4,8,10,12-pentaenamide.