Comparison of cyanide content in arbila beans (Phaseolus lunatus l) of East Nusa Tenggara using picrate and acid hydrolysis methods

Arbila beans contains cyanogenic compounds in the form of linamarin (cyanoglucosides), acetone cyanohydrin, and free cyanide, all together constitute total cyanide content. The objective of this study was to compare the cyanide content in arbila beans analyzed by picrate and acid hydrolysis methods. Picrate method measures total cyanide only. Cyanide content was identified by using a picrate paper, which turned into yellow. The absorbance was measured by a spectrophotometer at 510 nm. Acid hydrolysis method measures cyanide in arbila beans in the form of linamarin, acetone cyanohydrin, and free cyanide. Linamarin wa hydrolyzed in H3PO4 solution. Estimated cyanide levels was measured by using a colorimetric procedure. Data was analyzed using Independent sample t-test (SPSS v.16). The results showed that, there was no difference in the total level of cyanide in both methods. Total cyanide measured by picrate and acid hydrolysis method was 2705.17 ppm and 2693.29 ppm, respectively. In addition, the three forms of cyanide content were as follows: linamarin 926.22 ppm, cyanohydrin 556.01 ppm, and free cyanide 1211.06 ppm. Based on the results, both methods can be used for total cyanide analysis. To determine the form of cyanide other than total cyanide, it is recommended to use the acid hydrolysis method.