Comparative analysis of selenium biotransformation in broccoli sprouts via two extraction methods using HPLC-ICP (iCRC)MS

, respectively. Three selenium species, selenite (Se(IV)), selenomethionine (SeMet), and selenomethylselenocysteine (MeSeCys) were identified. Recovery rates were 102.0 ± 4.6%, 90 ± 20%, and 97.0 ± 2.4% for acetate-assisted UAE, and 99.0 ± 5.5%, 117.0 ± 7.2%, and 111 ± 18% for EE. Distinct Se speciation patterns between methods highlight differences in extractability and metabolism. These findings advance understanding of Se transformations in plants and support the development of Se-enriched functional foods, contributing to improved nutrition, agricultural biofortification, and food safety.