The current study involves two analytical research techniques, inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) spectroscopy, used to determine the elemental composition of different legumes usually produced and consumed in Slovenia. Results indicate that data obtained using these methods are in agreement with certified reference materials. In total, nineteen elements were determined from twenty legume samples. An intercomparison between four macro- (P, S, K, Ca) and three microelements (Fe, Zn, Mo) measured using ICP-MS and EDXRF methods showed a strong correlation. The EDXRF was found to be a cheaper, simpler and more environmentally friendly method for determination of elements P, S, Cl, K, Ca, Fe, Zn, Mo, Sr, Rb, Ti and Br in legumes, while for the identification and determination of Na, Mg, V, Cr, Mn, Co and Cu content ICP-MS was the method of choice due to its excellent sensitivity and accuracy. Using principal component analysis (PCA), the samples of the studied legumes were classified into four groups according to their elemental composition.
Keywords: EDXRF; ICP-MS; elemental composition; legumes..