Melatonin is a compound naturally present in food. Validated
analytical methods are required to determine its concentration in
foods, with adequate sample treatment to obtain accurate results,
which is the most challenging issue involved. There is a need to
analyse different food items using validated methods in order to
compile data to understand the significance of the dietetic intake
of melatonin. Finally, food intake may influence endogenous
melatonin concentration. Also reverse process needs to be
explored, namely that melatonin concentration may have an
effect on food intake. The extent and circumstances under which
these affirmations are true remain to be explored.