In-depth analysis of crocetin ester glycosides from dried/processed stigmas of Crocus sativus L. by HPLC-ESI-MSn (n = 2, 3).

These findings indicate the action of at least two different carotenoid cleavage dioxygenases (CCD2 and tentatively CCD4) during biosynthesis of this new bis-apocarotenoid aglycon (norcrocetin) and the existence of even higher glycosylated crocin derivatives at trace level.