Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry–based metabolomics approaches for foodomics research

This review discusses the current and future potential of liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS)-based metabolomics approaches in foodomics studies, focusing primarily on literature from 2019 to 2024. Critical aspects of sample preparation are emphasized, including handling diverse sample types, adopting extraction methods such as all-in-one extraction for broad metabolite coverage, and using 96-well-plate formats for high-throughput studies. LC-MS platforms are highlighted, encompassing stationary phase chemistries, the selection of mobile phase modifiers, and strategies for rapid LC separations, including options for acquiring tandem mass spectrometry spectra. The review addresses data processing, pitfalls during metabolite annotation, and quality control measures crucial for ensuring reliable outcomes in metabolomics studies. Tools for statistical analysis and data interpretation are also discussed. Data sharing, metabolite reporting, and efforts toward standardization of metabolomics methods are emphasized as essential practices in foodomics research. Overall, the review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in metabolomics, offering insights relevant to foodomics studies.