Thermal degradation kinetics and behavior of MPN from Ginkgo biloba

Herein, we investigated the thermal degradation kinetics and behavior of 4′-O-methylpyridoxine (MPN) a toxic component in Ginkgo biloba seeds (GBSs), to advance its thermal detoxification strategies. Using a multi-analytical approach—including thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), coupled thermogravimetry–Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy–mass spectrometry (TG–FTIR–MS), pyrolysis–gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (Py-GC/MS), and HPLC-IT-TOF-MS, we identified methanol as the key volatile product and revealed that degradation initiates with cleavage of the 4′-methoxy C–O bond within 303–523 K. Kinetic analysis quantified the mean activation energy at 105–106 kJ/mol, indicating an energy-intensive process that follows a random nucleation and growth model, accompanied by the formation of non-volatile dimers. Toxicity assessment shows that the acute toxicity of degradation products is reduced. These findings offer a scientific basis for optimizing thermal processing parameters to enhance the safety of GBSs in food and medicinal applications. • Model-free isoconversional methods revealed that average activation energy of MPN degradation is 105–106 kJ/mol. • Thermal treatment at 453 K for 30 min resulted in a 77.5 % decrease in MPN content in Ginkgo biloba seeds. • Methanol is the main gas-phase pyrolysis product from 303 Kto 523 K, alongside the formation of non-volatile dimers. • The primary mechanism is the cleavage of the C–O bond in the 4ʹ-methoxy group at 483 K.