Bioactive amines in soy sauce: Validation of method, occurrence and potential health effects

► An extraction procedure for amines from soy sauce was optimized. ► HPLC method with OPA derivatization and fluorimetric detection was validated. ► Two groups of soy sauce could be established with distinct profile. ► Soy sauce contained amines levels capable of causing adverse effects to humans. ► Soy sauce with lower NaCl contents contained higher amines levels.