Elemental testing

This assay quantifies aluminum, a common environmental and manufacturing contaminant, in food, supplements, and cosmetic products. Using ICP-MS, it provides highly sensitive detection of aluminum to support regulatory compliance, raw material quality control, and consumer safety.

Samples are digested using acid-based microwave or wet digestion protocols, then analyzed by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Quantification is performed using certified aluminum standards with internal standard correction and quality control spikes to ensure precision and accuracy.

Results are reported in ppm (mg/kg) or ppb depending on matrix and application. Values are assessed against regulatory thresholds (e.g., FDA, EU, Prop 65) to detect contamination and ensure product safety.

This assay quantifies antimony (Sb) using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). ICP-MS provides highly sensitive, multi-element analysis, allowing accurate detection of antimony at trace levels.

Samples are digested and introduced into an ICP-MS instrument, where antimony atoms are ionized in plasma and detected by mass spectrometry. Calibration with certified reference standards and quality control samples ensures precision and reproducibility.

Results are reported in parts per million (ppm) or parts per billion (ppb), and may be converted to µg/serving for finished products. Testing verifies compliance with safety regulations, identifies potential contamination, and ensures accurate labeling.

This assay determines total ash content by measuring the inorganic residue remaining after complete combustion of a sample. Ash represents the total mineral content and non-volatile inorganic material present.

Samples are weighed and heated in a controlled high-temperature furnace until all organic matter is fully combusted. The remaining residue is cooled and weighed to calculate ash content based on loss on ignition. Quality controls and replicate analyses ensure accuracy and reproducibility.

Testing is commonly used to assess raw material purity, detect adulteration, verify processing quality, and support specification compliance.

This assay quantifies barium (Ba) content using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). The method provides highly sensitive and accurate detection of trace metals across diverse matrices.

Samples are digested and analyzed by ICP-MS, where barium atoms are ionized in plasma and measured by mass spectrometry. Calibration with certified standards and use of internal controls ensure accuracy and reproducibility.

Results are reported in parts per million (ppm) or parts per billion (ppb), with the option to convert to µg/serving for finished products. Monitoring barium helps verify compliance with safety limits, confirm raw material quality, and prevent contamination issues.

This assay quantifies beryllium (Be) content using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). The method allows for highly sensitive detection of trace elements across a wide range of product types.

Samples are digested and introduced into the ICP-MS, where beryllium atoms are ionized in plasma and measured by mass spectrometry. Internal standards, calibration curves, and quality controls are used to ensure accuracy and precision.

Results are reported in parts per million (ppm) or parts per billion (ppb), with the option to convert to µg/serving for finished products. Testing confirms compliance with safety thresholds, ensures raw material quality, and helps detect contamination risks.

This assay measures calcium (Ca) using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). The method provides accurate elemental quantification across diverse matrices and supports both nutritional labeling and quality control.

Samples are digested and analyzed by ICP-MS under validated conditions. Calcium is ionized in the plasma and detected by mass spectrometry. Calibration with certified reference standards and internal controls ensures accuracy and reproducibility.

Testing verifies label claims, confirms elemental purity, and supports consistent formulation and regulatory compliance.

This test confirms the identity of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) in raw materials and dietary supplements using identification tests specified in the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) monograph for Calcium Carbonate. The USP identity tests verify the presence of both the calcium cation and the carbonate anion through defined chemical reactions, confirming that the material is correctly identified as calcium carbonate and not substituted with another calcium salt or carbonate mineral. This test is a standard component of raw material qualification for one of the most widely used mineral ingredients in dietary supplements. Results are reported as confirmed identity or non-conforming.

Identity testing is performed in accordance with the USP Calcium Carbonate monograph. The carbonate identity is confirmed by dissolving the sample in dilute acetic or hydrochloric acid and observing the characteristic effervescence of carbon dioxide gas; the gas may be confirmed by passing it through limewater (calcium hydroxide solution), which produces a white precipitate of calcium carbonate upon contact with CO₂. The calcium identity is confirmed by standard USP calcium identification tests, which typically include flame test (brick-red flame characteristic of calcium) and/or precipitation reactions such as the formation of a white precipitate with ammonium oxalate solution. All reactions are compared against the expected outcomes defined in the USP monograph.

Calcium carbonate is one of the most commonly used calcium sources in dietary supplements and is subject to substitution with lower-cost calcium salts or fillers such as calcium sulfate, calcium phosphate, or chalk-grade materials that may not meet pharmaceutical or food-grade specifications. USP identity testing provides a rapid, pharmacopoeially validated confirmation of both the cation and anion identity, ensuring that the correct mineral form is present before release for use in formulation. This test supports raw material qualification and cGMP compliance under 21 CFR 111.

This assay quantifies chloride content in food products using a titration method, supporting nutritional labeling and compliance with sodium/chloride-related formulation claims. Often used alongside sodium testing to complete electrolyte profiling.

Samples are prepared in solution and titrated using silver nitrate, which reacts specifically with chloride ions. The endpoint is measured via potentiometric or indicator-based detection, ensuring precise quantification.

Results are provided in mg/kg or ppm of chloride, allowing manufacturers to verify label claims and ensure batch-to-batch consistency. High or unexpected chloride values may indicate formulation errors or mislabeling.

This assay measures chromium (Cr) using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). The method provides sensitive and accurate elemental quantification across a wide range of matrices.

Samples are digested and analyzed by ICP-MS under validated conditions. Chromium is ionized in the plasma and detected by mass spectrometry. Calibration with certified reference standards and internal controls ensures accuracy and reproducibility.

Testing verifies label claims, confirms elemental purity, and supports consistent formulation and regulatory compliance.

This test quantifies copper, an essential trace mineral required for enzymatic activity, iron transport, connective tissue synthesis, and neurological function, in dietary supplements, food products, and raw materials using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Copper is a declared nutrient on supplement facts panels and must be accurately quantified to support label claim verification, raw material qualification, and cGMP compliance. Results are reported in mg or µg per serving or per gram, as applicable.

A representative sample is digested using microwave-assisted acid digestion with a nitric acid and hydrogen peroxide mixture to fully dissolve the matrix and bring all copper into solution. The digested solution is diluted to volume and analyzed by ICP-MS, where copper is detected and quantified based on its characteristic mass-to-charge ratio. Quantification is performed against a multi-point external calibration curve prepared from a certified copper reference standard, with an appropriate internal standard used to correct for matrix effects and instrument drift. Certified reference materials and method blanks are analyzed concurrently to confirm accuracy and recovery.

Copper is a required nutrient declaration on supplement facts panels when present at ≥2% of the Daily Value, and accurate quantification is essential for label compliance and consumer safety given that both deficiency and excess copper intake carry significant health risks. ICP-MS provides the sensitivity and selectivity needed to measure copper accurately across a wide range of supplement and food matrices, and its multi-element capability allows copper to be quantified efficiently as part of a broader elemental profiling panel.

This assay quantifies fluoride (F⁻), a naturally occurring mineral that may be added for dental health benefits or present as an environmental contaminant. Monitoring fluoride ensures products remain within safe and regulated limits.

Samples are analyzed for fluoride content using validated instrumentation and calibration standards. Quality controls confirm accuracy and reproducibility across matrices.

Results are reported in mg/L (water, beverages) or mg/kg (solids), with the option to convert to mg/serving for finished products. Testing verifies compliance with drinking water standards, confirms product labeling, and ensures consumer safety.

This test quantifies gold (Au) in dietary supplements, food products, and raw materials using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). While gold is not a regulated contaminant in the conventional sense, it is increasingly used as an intentional ingredient in colloidal gold supplements and certain specialty formulations, making accurate quantification important for label claim verification and safety substantiation. ICP-MS provides the sensitivity and specificity needed to detect and quantify gold across a wide concentration range, from trace-level incidental presence to intentionally added amounts. Results are reported in micrograms per gram (µg/g) or parts per billion (ppb).

A representative sample is digested using a validated acid digestion protocol — typically with nitric acid and hydrochloric acid (aqua regia) under microwave-assisted or hot block conditions — to achieve complete dissolution of gold-containing compounds. The resulting digest is diluted to volume with ultrapure water and analyzed by ICP-MS. Gold is detected at its primary isotope (m/z 197). Quantification is performed against a multi-point external calibration curve prepared from a certified gold reference standard. An internal standard is added to all samples and calibration solutions to correct for matrix effects and instrument drift. Certified reference materials and method blanks are analyzed concurrently to confirm accuracy and monitor for contamination.

Gold is used as an intentional ingredient in a growing number of colloidal gold dietary supplements, where accurate quantification is necessary to substantiate label claims and ensure consumer safety. ICP-MS is the preferred method for gold quantification due to its exceptional sensitivity, wide linear dynamic range, and ability to resolve gold from potential spectral interferences in complex food and supplement matrices. The use of aqua regia digestion ensures complete dissolution of metallic gold particles, which are resistant to standard single-acid digestion protocols.

This assay quantifies inorganic arsenic, a toxic heavy metal that can contaminate food through water, soil, or processing. Chronic exposure is linked to serious health effects. The assay uses ICP-MS to differentiate inorganic arsenic from total arsenic, ensuring precise monitoring. The validated method includes digestion and selective extraction to isolate inorganic species from complex matrices such as grains, seaweed, or juices.

Samples are digested with acid and subjected to a selective extraction process to isolate inorganic arsenic species. The extract is then analyzed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), which provides high sensitivity and specificity. Certified reference materials and calibration standards are used to ensure accuracy, while internal standards and method blanks support quality control and reproducibility.

Results are reported in µg/kg (ppb). Lower values indicate minimal contamination, while elevated levels may trigger regulatory review or product reformulation. Results are compared against safety limits (e.g., FDA, EU, Codex). Batch-level trends or exceedances can highlight sourcing or processing issues that need correction.

This assay quantifies iodine content in food samples, which is crucial for nutritional labeling and ensuring adequate intake for thyroid health. The method converts iodine into a measurable form and uses ICPMS for sensitive detection across various food matrices.

Food samples are acid-digested to release iodine, which is sometimes chemically reduced to stabilize the analyte. The prepared solution is introduced into an ICPMS system, where iodine is detected based on its atomic mass. Calibration with iodine standards and internal quality controls ensure the measurement’s accuracy.

Results are provided in ppb. These values allow manufacturers to verify that iodine levels meet nutritional targets and formulation requirements. Consistency across batches indicates stable fortification practices.

This assay measures iron (Fe) using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). The method provides highly sensitive and accurate elemental quantification across diverse matrices.

Samples are digested and analyzed by ICP-MS under validated conditions. Iron is ionized in the plasma and detected by mass spectrometry. Calibration with certified reference standards and internal controls ensures accuracy and reproducibility.

Testing verifies label claims, confirms elemental purity, and supports consistent formulation and regulatory compliance.

This assay measures magnesium (Mg) using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). The method provides highly sensitive and accurate elemental quantification across a wide range of matrices.

Samples are digested and analyzed by ICP-MS under validated conditions. Magnesium is ionized in the plasma and detected by mass spectrometry. Calibration with certified reference standards and internal controls ensures accuracy and reproducibility.

Testing verifies label claims, confirms elemental purity, and supports consistent formulation and regulatory compliance.

This test quantifies total elemental magnesium in blended raw materials and dietary supplements containing multiple magnesium salt forms — specifically magnesium glycinate, magnesium oxide, and magnesium citrate — using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Each magnesium salt form contributes a different theoretical percentage of elemental magnesium (magnesium oxide ~60%, magnesium citrate ~16%, magnesium glycinate ~14%), and accurate measurement of total elemental magnesium is essential for verifying that the combined blend delivers the declared milligrams of elemental magnesium per serving as required under 21 CFR 101 nutritional labeling regulations. ICP-MS provides the sensitivity and multi-element capability needed to precisely quantify magnesium in complex blended matrices. Results are reported in milligrams of elemental magnesium per gram or per serving.

A representative sample is accurately weighed and subjected to complete acid digestion using a validated microwave-assisted or hot block digestion procedure with concentrated nitric acid and, where necessary, hydrochloric acid or hydrogen peroxide, to fully dissolve all magnesium salt forms and convert magnesium to a soluble ionic form. The digested solution is diluted to volume with ultrapure water and analyzed by ICP-MS using an appropriate internal standard (e.g., ⁴⁵Sc or ⁶⁹Ga) to correct for matrix effects and instrument drift. Magnesium is quantified by monitoring the ²⁴Mg isotope against a multi-point external calibration curve prepared from a certified magnesium reference standard traceable to NIST. Certified reference materials and method blanks are analyzed concurrently to confirm digestion efficiency, accuracy, and precision.

ICP-MS is the preferred method for elemental magnesium quantification in complex blended matrices because it provides accurate, precise, and sensitive measurement of total elemental magnesium regardless of the salt form present, without requiring separate assays for each individual magnesium species. This is particularly important for multi-form magnesium blends where the varying solubility and matrix behavior of glycinate, oxide, and citrate salts could compromise the accuracy of less specific methods such as titration or colorimetric assays. Reporting total elemental magnesium ensures direct alignment with label claims and regulatory requirements under 21 CFR 101, and supports raw material qualification and cGMP compliance under 21 CFR 111.

This test quantifies magnesium content in dietary supplements, mineral ingredients, and raw materials using complexometric titration, typically with EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) as the chelating titrant. Magnesium is an essential macromineral involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions, including energy metabolism, muscle contraction, nerve function, and bone health. Titration provides a reliable, cost-effective, and well-established method for determining magnesium content in high-purity mineral salts and supplement formulations. Results are reported as a percentage or in milligrams per gram or per serving to support label claim verification and cGMP compliance.

A representative sample is accurately weighed and dissolved in dilute acid (typically hydrochloric or nitric acid) to ensure complete dissolution of the magnesium salt. The solution is adjusted to an appropriate pH (typically pH 10 using an ammonia buffer) and a metal indicator such as Eriochrome Black T (EBT) or Calmagite is added. The sample is titrated with a standardized EDTA solution until the endpoint color change is observed (from red/wine to blue), indicating complete chelation of the magnesium ions. Magnesium content is calculated from the volume and molarity of EDTA consumed relative to the sample weight. Blank titrations and reference standard checks are performed concurrently to confirm titrant standardization and method accuracy.

Complexometric EDTA titration is a classical, pharmacopoeial-recognized method for the quantification of divalent metal ions including magnesium, and is widely used for the release testing of magnesium-containing raw materials and finished products. The method is particularly well suited for high-purity magnesium salts (e.g., magnesium oxide, magnesium citrate, magnesium glycinate) where magnesium is the primary analyte and matrix interference is minimal. Titration offers a rapid, cost-effective alternative to instrumental methods such as ICP-MS or ICP-OES for routine magnesium quantification, supporting raw material qualification and label claim compliance under 21 CFR 111.

This test quantifies manganese, an essential trace mineral that serves as a cofactor for antioxidant enzymes, bone formation, and metabolic pathways involving carbohydrates and amino acids, in dietary supplements, food products, and raw materials using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Manganese is a declared nutrient on supplement facts panels and must be accurately quantified to support label claim verification, raw material qualification, and cGMP compliance. Results are reported in mg or µg per serving or per gram, as applicable.

A representative sample is digested using microwave-assisted acid digestion with a nitric acid and hydrogen peroxide mixture to fully dissolve the matrix and bring all manganese into solution. The digested solution is diluted to volume and analyzed by ICP-MS, where manganese is detected and quantified based on its characteristic mass-to-charge ratio. Quantification is performed against a multi-point external calibration curve prepared from a certified manganese reference standard, with an appropriate internal standard used to correct for matrix effects and instrument drift. Certified reference materials and method blanks are analyzed concurrently to confirm accuracy and recovery.

Manganese is a required nutrient declaration on supplement facts panels when present at ≥2% of the Daily Value, and accurate quantification is essential for label compliance. Manganese can be present at elevated levels in certain botanical raw materials — particularly green tea, grains, and legume-derived ingredients — making accurate measurement important for both potency claims and safety assessment given that chronic high manganese intake is associated with neurological effects. ICP-MS provides the sensitivity and multi-element capability needed for reliable quantification across diverse supplement and food matrices.

This assay quantifies various minerals (sodium, potassium, calcium and iron) in food products, supporting nutritional labeling and fortification verification. The method uses ICP-MS/MS technology to accurately measure trace and major minerals in complex matrices.

Samples are acid-digested to solubilize all mineral components. The resulting solution is analyzed by ICP-MS/MS, where each mineral is separated based on its mass and quantified using calibration standards. Stringent quality control—including certified reference materials and replicate analyses—ensures the accuracy of the final measurements.

Results are provided in mg/kg or ppm for each mineral, allowing manufacturers to verify that nutritional targets and formulation claims are met. Consistency across batches confirms product quality, while significant deviations prompt further review.

This test quantifies molybdenum, an essential trace mineral that serves as a cofactor for several critical enzymes involved in amino acid metabolism and detoxification, in dietary supplements, food products, and raw materials using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Molybdenum is required in microgram quantities and is a declared nutrient on supplement facts panels when present at meaningful levels. ICP-MS provides the sensitivity required to accurately measure molybdenum at the trace concentrations found in food and supplement matrices. Results are reported in µg per serving or µg per gram to support label claim verification and cGMP compliance.

A representative sample is digested using microwave-assisted acid digestion with a nitric acid and hydrogen peroxide mixture to fully dissolve the matrix and bring all elemental molybdenum into solution. The digested solution is diluted to volume and analyzed by ICP-MS, where molybdenum is detected and quantified based on its characteristic mass-to-charge ratio. Quantification is performed against a multi-point external calibration curve prepared from a certified molybdenum reference standard, with an appropriate internal standard used to correct for matrix effects and instrument drift. Certified reference materials and method blanks are analyzed concurrently to confirm accuracy and recovery.

Molybdenum is present at trace levels in most supplement and food matrices, requiring the sub-ppb detection capability of ICP-MS for accurate quantification. As a required nutrient declaration when present at ≥2% of the Daily Value, accurate measurement is essential for label compliance. ICP-MS also allows molybdenum to be quantified as part of a multi-element panel, providing analytical efficiency for comprehensive elemental profiling of raw materials and finished products.

Samples are digested using acid-based microwave or wet digestion protocols, then analyzed by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Quantification is performed using certified aluminum standards with internal standard correction and quality control spikes to ensure precision and accuracy.

Results are reported in ppm (mg/kg) or ppb depending on matrix and application. Values are assessed against regulatory thresholds (e.g., FDA, EU, Prop 65) to detect contamination and ensure product safety.

This assay measures potassium (K) using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). The method provides accurate elemental quantification across diverse matrices and supports nutritional labeling and quality control.

Samples are digested and analyzed by ICP-MS under validated conditions. Potassium is ionized in the plasma and detected by mass spectrometry. Calibration with certified reference standards and internal controls ensures accuracy and reproducibility.

Testing verifies label claims, confirms elemental purity, and supports consistent formulation and regulatory compliance.

This test quantifies selenium, an essential trace mineral and critical component of selenoproteins involved in antioxidant defense, thyroid hormone metabolism, and immune regulation, in dietary supplements, food products, and raw materials using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Selenium has a narrow margin between adequate intake and toxicity, making accurate quantification important for both label claim verification and safety assessment. Results are reported in µg per serving or µg per gram to support cGMP compliance and regulatory requirements.

A representative sample is digested using microwave-assisted acid digestion with a nitric acid and hydrogen peroxide mixture to fully dissolve the matrix and bring all selenium into solution. The digested solution is diluted to volume and analyzed by ICP-MS using collision/reaction cell technology to minimize polyatomic spectral interferences — particularly from argon-based and chloride-based ions that overlap with selenium isotopes. Quantification is performed against a multi-point external calibration curve prepared from a certified selenium reference standard, with an appropriate internal standard used to correct for matrix effects and instrument drift. Certified reference materials and method blanks are run concurrently to confirm accuracy and recovery.

Selenium presents significant analytical challenges by ICP-MS due to polyatomic interferences on its primary isotopes from argon dimers, argon chloride, and other matrix-derived species, requiring collision/reaction cell technology or careful isotope selection for accurate measurement. Given selenium's narrow therapeutic window — with the tolerable upper intake level set at just 400 µg/day for adults — precise quantification is essential not only for label claim compliance but also for ensuring product safety, particularly in high-dose selenium supplements and selenium-enriched yeast ingredients.

This test quantifies elemental silicon in raw materials, botanical extracts, and dietary supplements using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES). Silicon is the second most abundant element in the Earth's crust and is present in dietary supplements primarily as orthosilicic acid, silicon dioxide (silica), or plant-derived silica from sources such as horsetail (Equisetum arvense) and bamboo extract. Silicon is increasingly recognized as a nutritionally relevant trace element with roles in bone mineralization, collagen synthesis, and the structural integrity of connective tissue, skin, hair, and nails. ICP-OES provides the sensitivity, precision, and multi-element capability required to accurately quantify silicon across a wide range of concentrations in complex botanical and mineral matrices. Results are reported in milligrams of elemental silicon per gram or per serving.

A representative sample is accurately weighed and subjected to complete acid digestion using a validated microwave-assisted or fusion-based digestion procedure. Silicon presents unique digestion challenges due to the high chemical inertness of silica (SiO₂); accordingly, digestion protocols typically employ hydrofluoric acid (HF) in combination with nitric acid, or alkaline fusion with sodium hydroxide or lithium metaborate/tetraborate, to ensure complete dissolution of siliceous materials. The digested solution is diluted to volume with ultrapure water and analyzed by ICP-OES, monitoring silicon at an appropriate emission line (e.g., 251.611 nm or 212.412 nm) selected to minimize spectral interferences. An appropriate internal standard is used to correct for matrix effects and instrument drift. Quantification is performed against a multi-point external calibration curve prepared from a certified silicon reference standard traceable to NIST. Certified reference materials and method blanks are analyzed concurrently to confirm digestion efficiency, accuracy, and precision.

Silicon quantification requires careful attention to sample digestion, as silicon dioxide is among the most chemically resistant inorganic compounds and is incompletely dissolved by standard nitric acid digestion alone. ICP-OES with appropriate digestion (HF-based or fusion) provides the complete dissolution and sensitive, accurate elemental detection needed to reliably quantify silicon across the concentration ranges relevant to dietary supplements and botanical ingredients. ICP-OES is preferred over ICP-MS for silicon due to polyatomic spectral interferences at the primary silicon isotope masses in ICP-MS, making optical emission the more practical and robust technique for routine silicon analysis. This method supports label claim substantiation, raw material qualification, and cGMP compliance under 21 CFR 111.

This test quantifies silicon (Si), expressed as silicon dioxide (SiO₂), in dietary supplements, food products, and raw materials using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES). Silicon dioxide is widely used in the supplement and food industry as an anti-caking agent and flow aid, and is also present as a functional ingredient in certain bone and connective tissue health formulations. Accurate quantification is important for verifying that silicon dioxide levels are within permitted use limits as a food additive, or for confirming the declared silicon content in functional silica-based ingredients. Results are reported as a percentage or in milligrams per gram, expressed as SiO₂ or elemental silicon as applicable.

A representative sample is digested using a validated high-temperature fusion or alkaline digestion protocol — such as sodium peroxide or sodium hydroxide fusion — or microwave-assisted acid digestion with hydrofluoric acid, as standard nitric acid digestion alone is insufficient for complete dissolution of silica. The resulting digest is diluted to volume with ultrapure water and analyzed by ICP-OES, with silicon quantified at its characteristic emission wavelength (typically 251.6 nm or 212.4 nm). Quantification is performed against a multi-point external calibration curve prepared from a certified silicon reference standard. An internal standard is used to correct for matrix effects and instrument drift, and certified reference materials and method blanks are analyzed concurrently to confirm accuracy and monitor for contamination.

Silicon dioxide is one of the most commonly used excipients in dietary supplement manufacturing, and its accurate quantification is important for confirming compliance with FDA-permitted use levels as a food additive (21 CFR 172.480) and for verifying the silicon content of functional silica ingredients. ICP-OES is the preferred method for silicon quantification due to its high sensitivity, wide linear dynamic range, and ability to handle the specialized digestion conditions required for complete silica dissolution. Accurate silicon analysis supports both excipient quality control and functional ingredient potency verification under 21 CFR 111.

This assay quantifies silicone-related residues by measuring elemental silicon content using ICP-MS. The method detects trace levels of silicon that may arise from raw materials, excipients, or processing contact materials, helping ensure compliance with safety and purity standards.

Samples are digested in acid using microwave or wet digestion protocols. The digest is analyzed by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), which quantifies total silicon as a marker for silicone. Certified standards, internal standard correction, and duplicate injections are used to ensure reproducibility and accuracy.

Results are reported in ppm (mg/kg) or µg per serving. Values are compared against product specifications, regulatory thresholds, or internal safety limits to confirm purity and detect contamination from silicone sources (e.g., lubricants, coatings, processing aids).

This assay quantifies silver (Ag) content using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). The method provides highly sensitive detection of trace metals across diverse matrices, from dietary supplements to foods and beverages.

Samples are digested and introduced into an ICP-MS instrument, where silver atoms are ionized in a plasma source and measured by mass spectrometry. The method allows precise quantitation of silver at parts-per-billion (ppb) levels with internal standard calibration and quality control checks.

Results are reported in parts per million (ppm) or parts per billion (ppb), and can be converted to µg/serving for finished products. Testing verifies compliance with safety guidelines, identifies contamination risks, and ensures accurate labeling.

This assay measures sodium (Na) using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). The method provides accurate elemental quantification across diverse matrices and supports nutritional labeling and quality control.

Samples are digested and analyzed by ICP-MS under validated conditions. Sodium is ionized in the plasma and detected by mass spectrometry. Calibration with certified reference standards and internal controls ensures accuracy and reproducibility.

Testing verifies label claims, confirms elemental purity, and supports consistent formulation and regulatory compliance.

This test quantifies sodium (Na) in food products, dietary supplements, and raw materials using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), with results expressed as sodium chloride (NaCl) equivalent where applicable. Sodium is an essential electrolyte that plays a critical role in fluid balance, nerve transmission, and muscle function, and its accurate quantification is required for nutrition facts panel labeling under FDA regulations. ICP-MS provides exceptional sensitivity and precision for sodium quantification across a wide range of matrices and concentration levels. Results are reported in milligrams per gram or per serving, and may be expressed as sodium chloride content for salt-standardized applications.

A representative sample is digested using a validated acid digestion protocol — typically nitric acid with or without hydrogen peroxide under microwave-assisted or hot block conditions — to achieve complete dissolution of the sample matrix. The digest is diluted to volume with ultrapure water and analyzed by ICP-MS. Sodium is detected at its primary isotope (m/z 23), with attention to potential polyatomic interferences managed through instrument optimization or collision/reaction cell technology. An internal standard is added to all samples and calibration solutions to correct for matrix effects and instrument drift. Quantification is performed against a multi-point external calibration curve prepared from a certified sodium reference standard. Certified reference materials and method blanks are analyzed concurrently to confirm accuracy and monitor for contamination.

Accurate sodium quantification is a regulatory requirement for nutrition labeling under 21 CFR 101, where sodium content must be declared on the Nutrition Facts panel. ICP-MS provides the sensitivity and multi-element capability to quantify sodium alongside other nutritionally relevant elements in a single analytical run, making it an efficient choice for comprehensive elemental nutritional profiling. For products where sodium chloride is the declared ingredient, the sodium result can be mathematically converted to NaCl equivalent to support specification compliance and formulation verification.

This assay quantifies elemental sulfur in dietary supplements, functional ingredients, and raw materials. Using ICP-MS, it detects and measures sulfur content to support formulation transparency, verify label claims, and ensure consistency in sulfur-containing compounds such as MSM, cysteine, and glutathione.

Samples are digested using acid-based protocols, then analyzed by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Quantification is performed using certified sulfur standards, internal standard correction, and quality control samples to ensure accurate and reproducible results.

Results are reported in ppm (mg/kg) or mg per serving. Values are compared to formulation specifications and regulatory limits where applicable to confirm mineral levels and detect anomalies in product composition.

This assay quantifies thallium, a highly toxic metal, in food samples using advanced ICP‑MS/MS technology. Even trace amounts are of concern, so the method is optimized for high sensitivity and specificity in complex matrices.

Food samples are acid-digested to release thallium from the matrix. The resulting solution is analyzed by ICP‑MS/MS, which separates and detects thallium ions based on their mass-to-charge ratio. Calibration with thallium standards and rigorous quality control (including blanks and replicates) ensures accurate results.

Results are reported in ppb. Lower values indicate minimal thallium contamination, while elevated levels prompt further investigation into raw material and processing controls to ensure consumer safety.

Assay that quantifies key dietary minerals (Magnesium, Phosphorus, Chromium, Manganese, Cobalt, Nickel, Copper, Zinc, Selenium) in food products to support nutritional fortification and labeling. It ensures that trace and major mineral contents meet regulatory and formulation targets.

Samples are subjected to acid digestion to solubilize all mineral components. The digestate is analyzed using ICP-MS/MS, where each mineral is quantified based on its mass-to-charge ratio. Calibration with certified reference materials and replicate analyses ensure precise and accurate measurement.

Results are provided in mg/kg or ppm for each mineral. These values confirm that the product meets nutritional targets and regulatory standards, while consistency across batches indicates controlled manufacturing and reliable ingredient sourcing.

This assay quantifies uranium (U) content using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). The method provides highly sensitive detection of uranium isotopes across diverse sample types.

Samples are digested and introduced into the ICP-MS, where uranium atoms are ionized in plasma and detected by mass spectrometry. Internal standards and calibration with certified reference materials ensure accuracy and reproducibility.

Results are reported in parts per billion (ppb) or parts per million (ppm), with the option to convert to µg/serving for finished products. Testing verifies compliance with safety guidelines, identifies contamination risks, and ensures consumer protection.

This assay measures zinc (Zn) using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). The method provides sensitive and accurate elemental quantification across a wide range of matrices.

Samples are digested and analyzed by ICP-MS under validated conditions. Zinc is ionized in the plasma and detected by mass spectrometry. Calibration with certified reference standards and internal controls ensures accuracy and reproducibility.

Testing verifies label claims, confirms elemental purity, and supports consistent formulation and regulatory compliance.