Comprehensive analysis of the chemical composition of conifer cones collected from Polish forests

This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the chemical composition of conifer cones from four species (pine, larch, spruce, and fir) collected from Polish forests. The aim was to examine inter-species variations in elemental composition, phenolic compounds, low molecular weight organic acids (LMWOAs), fatty acids, and sterols. The methodology involved a complex elemental analysis, determination of basic chemical composition, as well as ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) for phenolic compounds, low molecular weight organic acids (LMWOAs), and sterols. Moreover, fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) were analyzed using a gas chromatograph with a flame ionization detector (GC-FID). Results show significant species-specific differences in chemical composition of tested cones. Spruce cones had high carbon content and favorable calorific values, while fir cones were characterized by high nitrogen and low sulfur content. Holocellulose and lignin content varied across species, with pine and spruce cones containing higher holocellulose content. Elemental analysis revealed significant variations in metal concentrations, with fir cones having the highest calcium levels and spruce cones having higher levels of magnesium, copper, and zinc. Phenolic and flavonoid content also varied, with spruce cones showing the highest total phenolic contents. The analysis of LMWOAs, sterols, and fatty acids highlighted further differences in composition among species, with notable variations in shikimic, citric, and fatty acid profiles. These findings show the chemical diversity of conifer cones and their potential for varied applications.