Discrimination and characterization of volatile organic compounds in Lonicerae Japonicae flos and Lonicerae flos using multivariate statistics combined with headspace gas chromatography–ion mobility spectrometry and headspace solid‐phase microextraction gas chromatography–mass spectrometry techniques

Rationale The volatile organic compounds (VOCs) of Lonicerae Japonicae flos (LJF) and Lonicera flos (LF) play a pivotal role in determining their sensory characteristics, medicinal properties, and subsequent impact on market pricing and consumer preferences. However, the differences and specificity of these VOCs remain obscure. Hence, it is crucial to conduct a comprehensive characterization of the VOCs in LJF and LF and pinpoint their potential differential VOCs. Methods In this study, headspace gas chromatography–ion mobility spectrometry (HS‐GC/IMS) and headspace solid‐phase microextraction gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (HS‐SPME‐GC/MS) were employed to comprehensively investigate the compositional characteristics and distinctions in VOCs between LJF and LF. Multivariate statistical analysis was used to identify candidate differential VOCs of LJF and LF samples. Results A total of 54 and 88 VOCs were identified using HS‐GC/IMS and HS‐SPME‐GC/MS analysis, respectively. Primary VOCs detected in LJF include leaf alcohol, ( E )‐2‐hexen‐1‐ol dimer, 2‐octyn‐1‐ol, and ( E )‐3‐hexen‐1‐ol. Key VOCs prevalent in LF encompass farnesol, heptanoic acid, octanoic acid, and valeric acid. Multivariate statistical analysis indicates that compounds such as phenethyl alcohol and leaf alcohol were selected as potential VOCs for distinguishing between LJF and LF. Conclusion This research conducted a comprehensive analysis of the fundamental volatile components in both LJF and LF. It subsequently elucidated the distinctions and specificities within their respective VOC profiles. And this study enables differentiation between LJF and LF through the analysis of VOCs, offering valuable insights for enhancing the quality control of both LJF and LF.