Determination of theobromine in cocoa products

Abstract

Existing methods are described and a new and improved procedure proposed. The alkaloid is completely extracted by boiling water and magnesia, clarified with lead acetate, filtered, concentrated, and extracted with chloroform. Alkaloidal residue from the chloroform extract is assayed by Boie''s method. Results are equal to, and sometimes higher than,those by Wadsworth''s method. A rapid continuous extractor for use with chloroform is described.