This test determines the melting point of a solid raw material or ingredient using the method described in USP <741> (Melting Range or Temperature). The melting point is a fundamental physical characteristic used to confirm the identity and assess the purity of a substance — impurities and polymorphic variations typically cause a depression or broadening of the expected melting range. This test is commonly applied to pharmaceutical-grade excipients, active ingredients, fatty acids, waxes, and other solid materials where melting point is a defined specification parameter. Results are reported as the observed melting range in degrees Celsius (°C) and compared against the USP monograph or supplier specification.

A small quantity of the dry, finely powdered sample is introduced into a capillary tube, which is placed in a calibrated melting point apparatus. The temperature is raised at a controlled, defined rate as specified in USP <741>. The temperature at which the sample begins to liquefy (onset) and the temperature at which it is completely melted (clear point) are recorded. The observed melting range is compared against the reference specification for the material under test. The apparatus is calibrated using certified melting point reference standards prior to sample analysis to confirm temperature accuracy.

Melting point determination is one of the oldest and most straightforward physical identity tests in pharmacopoeial analysis, and is required or recommended in numerous USP ingredient monographs as a rapid, non-destructive means of confirming material identity and detecting gross impurities or adulteration. A melting point that falls outside the expected range — or a broadened melting range — can indicate the presence of impurities, incorrect polymorph, or substitution with a different material. USP <741> provides a standardized, validated procedure that supports raw material qualification and cGMP compliance under 21 CFR 111.

This assay quantifies mercury in food samples. It is designed to deliver precise measurements of these contaminants, which are monitored due to their potential toxicity. The robust method employs advanced instrumentation to detect trace levels in complex matrices.

Food samples undergo acid digestion to break down the matrix and release bound metals. The resulting solution is analyzed by an instrument (commonly ICP-MS) that separates and quantifies the metals based on their mass. Calibration with certified reference materials and inclusion of quality control samples ensure accuracy before final reporting.

Results are delivered as concentration values (ppb). Lower values are preferred, and any significant increase may prompt further investigation. The data allow manufacturers to assess overall product safety and track contaminant trends across batches.

This assay quantifies methylliberine, the purine alkaloid branded as Dynamine, commonly used in energy, nootropic, and performance supplements. Using HPLC, it verifies methylliberine content to ensure label accuracy, consistent dosing, and safe stimulant formulation.

Samples are extracted using alcohol-based or aqueous solvents and analyzed by HPLC with UV detection at a compound-specific wavelength. Quantification is performed using certified methylliberine standards, with internal standard correction and duplicate injections to ensure precision.

Results are reported in mg per g or per serving. Values are compared to formulation targets and declared label claims to confirm potency and detect mislabeling or improper standardization.

This test identifies and quantifies methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), also known as dimethyl sulfone, in raw materials and finished dietary supplement products using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). MSM is a low-molecular-weight organosulfur compound commonly formulated in powders, capsules, tablets, gummies, liquids, and multi-ingredient joint- and mobility-support products. Because MSM is highly water-soluble and has limited chromophoric response for conventional UV detection, LC-MS/MS provides selective detection in the presence of amino acids, sugars, minerals, botanical extracts, flavor systems, and other formulation components. Results are reported as % w/w, mg/g, or mg per serving, according to the product specification and intended label declaration.

A representative sample is accurately weighed and dissolved or extracted in a validated aqueous or aqueous-organic solvent system, typically purified water or a water/methanol mixture, selected to achieve complete recovery of MSM from the relevant dosage form. Solid materials are mixed, sonicated, and/or agitated as necessary; finished matrices may undergo additional clarification steps to remove insoluble excipients and reduce matrix interference. The prepared extract is centrifuged and membrane-filtered before analysis. MSM is separated using a validated chromatographic mode suitable for highly polar analytes, such as hydrophilic-interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC) or a suitably retained reversed-phase method. Detection is performed by tandem mass spectrometry using optimized atmospheric-pressure ionization and compound-specific precursor/product-ion transitions. An isotopically labeled MSM internal standard or a qualified structurally appropriate internal standard may be used to correct for sample-preparation variability and matrix effects. Quantification is performed against a multi-point calibration curve prepared from a qualified, purity-corrected MSM reference standard. Method blanks, system-suitability standards, duplicate preparations, spike-recovery samples, calibration-verification standards, and concurrent quality-control samples are evaluated to confirm selectivity, accuracy, precision, linearity, recovery, and carryover control.

MSM is a small, polar, nonvolatile compound that may be challenging to retain and distinguish from formulation components using non-specific analytical approaches. LC-MS/MS offers high analyte specificity through chromatographic retention, molecular-ion detection, and characteristic fragmentation behavior, enabling reliable MSM quantification even in complex multi-ingredient supplements. The use of an internal standard and matrix-appropriate extraction conditions helps control potential ion-suppression and recovery effects that may otherwise influence results. This method supports raw-material qualification, formulation verification, lot-to-lot consistency, label-claim substantiation, and dietary supplement cGMP quality-control requirements under 21 CFR 111.

This assay quantifies methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), a sulfur-containing compound commonly used in joint health and recovery supplements. Using LC-MS/MS, it verifies MSM content in capsules, powders, and blends to confirm label accuracy and ensure consistent therapeutic dosing.

Samples are extracted in aqueous solution and analyzed by LC-MS/MS using compound-specific mass transitions. Quantification is performed with certified MSM standards, internal standard correction, and duplicate injections to ensure precise and reproducible results.

Results are reported in mg per g or per serving. Values are compared with formulation targets and label claims to confirm dosing consistency and detect dilution or mislabeling.

This assay measures the concentration of key microcystin variants — LR, RR, and YR — using Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Microcystins are hepatotoxic cyclic peptides produced by cyanobacteria and are regulated in food, water, and dietary supplements due to their toxicity.

Samples are extracted and analyzed by LC-MS/MS. Individual variants (LR, RR, YR) are separated, identified, and quantified against certified reference standards. The method allows high sensitivity and specificity for detecting microcystins even at trace levels.

Results are reported in µg/L (water, beverages) or µg/kg (solids), with the option to convert to µg/serving for finished products. Testing ensures compliance with WHO, EPA, and international safety limits, protects consumer health, and verifies product quality.

This panel includes Total Plate Count, Yeast & Mold, Coliforms, E. coli, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus aureus. It provides a comprehensive screen for microbial load, spoilage organisms, and key pathogens to ensure product safety and compliance.

Samples are prepared and plated on selective and non-selective agar media appropriate for each organism. Incubation times and conditions follow USP, AOAC, and FDA BAM guidelines. Confirmatory biochemical or molecular methods are used where necessary for pathogen identification. All tests include appropriate controls and duplicate runs.

Results are reported in CFU/g or as Detected / Not Detected depending on the assay. Values are assessed against regulatory limits and industry standards (e.g., USP <2021>, <2022>, <2023>) to verify safety and microbial integrity.

This assay identifies and quantifies microplastic particles in food samples. It targets small plastic fragments that may contaminate products through environmental exposure, helping manufacturers monitor and manage potential contamination.

Samples are processed to remove organic matter through digestion, then filtered to capture residual particles. The particles are analyzed by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy to identify their polymer type based on absorption spectra. Calibration with plastic standards and quality control measures, including blank filters and replicate analyses, ensure reliable results.

Results are reported as particle counts per unit mass or as a mass concentration. Lower numbers indicate minimal contamination, while higher counts may signal environmental intrusion and require further investigation. The data help track contamination trends over time.

This assay identifies and quantifies microplastic particles in food samples. It targets small plastic fragments that may contaminate products through environmental exposure, helping manufacturers monitor and manage potential contamination.

Samples are processed to remove organic matter through digestion, then filtered to capture residual particles. The particles are analyzed by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy to identify their polymer type based on absorption spectra. Calibration with plastic standards and quality control measures, including blank filters and replicate analyses, ensure reliable results.

Results are reported as particle counts per unit mass or as a mass concentration. Lower numbers indicate minimal contamination, while higher counts may signal environmental intrusion and require further investigation. The data help track contamination trends over time.

This assay identifies and quantifies microplastic particles in food samples. It targets small plastic fragments that may contaminate products through environmental exposure, helping manufacturers monitor and manage potential contamination.

Important:

Turnaround time for this test is typically 14 business days, but can extend to 21 business days depending on the complexity of the sample matrix.

Difficult matrices include fish, meat, jerky, cocoa, cinnamon, and other high-fiber or dense materials. These require careful multi-day digestion to preserve microplastic particles.

Because microplastics digestion is still an emerging process, we may not know if a matrix is challenging until it’s processed by the lab. We will make sure to give you the heads up and keep you in the loop if TAT is extended — and we’re actively working to bring this test in-house to reduce TAT and pricing over time.

Samples are processed to remove organic matter through digestion, then filtered to capture residual particles. The particles are analyzed by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy to identify their polymer type based on absorption spectra. Calibration with plastic standards and quality control measures, including blank filters and replicate analyses, ensure reliable results.

Results are reported as particle counts per unit mass or as a mass concentration. Lower numbers indicate minimal contamination, while higher counts may signal environmental intrusion and require further investigation. The data help track contamination trends over time.

This assay quantifies the key active flavonolignans in milk thistle (Silybum marianum), commonly grouped under the silymarin complex. Using LC-MS/MS, it measures individual and total silymarin content to verify potency in liver support supplements and botanical blends.

Samples are extracted with alcohol or aqueous solvents, then analyzed by LC-MS/MS using compound-specific mass transitions. Quantification is performed with certified silymarin standards, internal standard correction, and duplicate injections to ensure precise and reproducible results.

Results are reported in mg per g or per serving for each analyte and total silymarin. Values are compared to formulation targets and label claims to confirm extract standardization and detect potential degradation or adulteration.

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.

Assay that measures the moisture content in food products (using the “loss on drying” technique) to support labeling and quality control. It ensures that water levels meet regulatory and formulation standards, maintaining product stability and consumer acceptance.

Samples are accurately weighed, then placed in a controlled environment and heated to remove moisture. The weight difference before and after drying is measured to calculate the moisture content. Calibration with reference materials and replicate measurements ensure precise and accurate results for materials with >0.5% moisture by weight.

Results are expressed as a percentage (%) of moisture for each sample. These values confirm that the product meets regulatory requirements and specified quality parameters, while consistency across batches indicates controlled manufacturing and reliable ingredient sourcing.

This test determines the moisture content of raw materials, excipients, and dietary supplement ingredients using Karl Fischer Titration — the gold standard method for specific water quantification in pharmaceutical and food-grade materials. Unlike loss on drying methods, Karl Fischer Titration measures only water and is not affected by the loss of volatile compounds other than water, making it the preferred method for materials where accuracy and specificity are critical. This test is applicable to a wide range of matrices including powders, oils, waxes, botanical extracts, and hygroscopic ingredients. Results are reported as a percentage water content (% w/w).

A representative sample is accurately weighed and introduced into a Karl Fischer titration vessel containing a suitable anhydrous solvent — typically anhydrous methanol or a proprietary Karl Fischer solvent — under dry, inert conditions to prevent atmospheric moisture uptake. The water present in the sample reacts stoichiometrically with the Karl Fischer reagent (comprising iodine, sulfur dioxide, base, and solvent). In volumetric Karl Fischer titration, a standardized Karl Fischer reagent solution is added until the endpoint is detected by a potentiometric or biamperometric sensor. In coulometric Karl Fischer titration, iodine is electrochemically generated in situ and the total charge consumed is used to calculate water content. The appropriate technique — volumetric or coulometric — is selected based on the expected moisture level of the sample.

Karl Fischer Titration is the most specific and accurate method for water determination in pharmaceutical and dietary supplement materials, and is the reference method specified in USP <921> and numerous pharmacopoeial ingredient monographs. Its specificity for water — as opposed to total volatile content measured by loss on drying — makes it particularly important for materials containing volatile organic compounds, oils, or thermally sensitive ingredients where oven drying would yield inaccurate results. Accurate moisture control is critical for product stability, microbial safety, potency maintenance, and compliance with raw material specifications under 21 CFR 111.

This assay quantifies the moisture content, meaning water and other volatile matter, of raw materials, ingredients, and finished products using thermogravimetric analysis, a gravimetric loss-on-drying method. Moisture is a critical quality attribute in powders, extracts, and capsules because excess water promotes microbial growth, hydrolysis, caking, and degradation of actives, and it also affects the dry-weight basis on which potency is calculated. Results are reported as % w/w.

A representative sample is weighed into a tared pan and spread in a thin, even layer to ensure uniform drying. The sample is heated in a thermogravimetric moisture analyzer at a defined temperature, typically around 105 °C, while mass is continuously recorded until the weight change falls below a set endpoint threshold. Moisture is calculated from the mass lost relative to the starting mass, with duplicate determinations and routine balance and heating-unit verification confirming method performance.

Loss-on-drying methods measure all volatile matter rather than water alone, so samples rich in volatile oils, alcohols, or residual solvents can over-report moisture, and hygroscopic materials can gain water during handling. Direct thermogravimetric weighing gives a fast, calibration-free measurement that suits most dry powders and extracts, supporting in-house specification and release testing under 21 CFR 111 dietary supplement cGMP requirements and the applicable USP loss-on-drying chapter.

This assay provides microscopic identification of up to three distinct mold types present in a sample. The analysis determines the morphological characteristics of each mold to the genus or species level, depending on visibility and growth pattern.

Samples are cultured under controlled incubation for approximately five days to promote mold growth. After incubation, distinct colonies are microscopically examined, and up to three mold types are identified. Additional identifications can be performed upon request if more than three species are present.

Results are reported as a list of identified molds per sample. Testing supports contamination assessment, validates product safety, and helps pinpoint sources of microbial spoilage.

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.

This assay detects and quantifies mustard protein using a validated ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay). It confirms the presence or absence of mustard contamination in raw materials, finished products, and manufacturing environments—essential for verifying “mustard-free” claims and meeting regulatory requirements in regions where mustard is a declared allergen (e.g., EU, Canada).

Samples are extracted and analyzed using a sandwich ELISA with antibodies specific to mustard protein. Colorimetric detection is used, and results are compared to a certified standard curve. Controls and duplicate wells ensure test precision and reliability.

Results are reported in ppm (mg/kg) of mustard protein. The method typically detects down to 1–5 ppm depending on the matrix, making it suitable for trace-level screening and allergen risk management.

This assay screens for mycotoxins—poisonous compounds produced by molds—in food products. It targets toxins such as aflatoxins and ochratoxin, which can pose serious health risks even at low levels. The method employs LC‑MS/MS for high sensitivity and specificity in complex matrices.

Samples are extracted using solvents optimized for mycotoxin recovery and cleaned up via immunoaffinity columns or other methods to remove interferences. The purified extract is analyzed by LC‑MS/MS, with each mycotoxin detected through specific mass transitions. Calibration with mycotoxin standards and internal quality control samples ensure reliable quantification.

Results are reported in ppb. Non-detect or very low levels indicate that mycotoxin contamination is minimal, while elevated values necessitate corrective action and further investigation. The data are critical for ensuring food safety and guiding product recalls if necessary.

This assay quantifies N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a stable derivative of the amino acid cysteine widely used in supplements for antioxidant support and glutathione production. Using HPLC, it measures NAC content in raw materials and finished products to confirm label claims, ensure potency, and detect degradation.

Samples are extracted in aqueous or methanolic solution and analyzed by HPLC with UV detection at a compound-specific wavelength (typically ~210 nm). Quantification is performed using certified NAC standards, with internal standard correction and duplicate injections to ensure precision and reproducibility.

Results are reported in mg per g or per serving. Values are compared with declared label claims and formulation targets to verify potency, support stability checks, and confirm compliance with product specifications.

This test quantifies N-Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR), a compound important for cellular energy metabolism and neurological function, using LC-MS/MS. It is applicable to raw materials, capsules, powders, and finished dietary supplements. The method offers sensitive detection with a reporting limit of 0.1 mg/kg, ensuring accurate measurement for quality control and regulatory compliance.

Samples are prepared by extracting 0.5 g of material with 10 mL of methanol-water (80:20 v/v) followed by centrifugation and filtration. The extract is analyzed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) with electrospray ionization in positive mode, monitoring specific MRM transitions for ALCAR. Quantification is performed using a calibration curve generated from certified ALCAR reference standards ranging from 0.1 to 50 mg/L. Method accuracy and precision are verified through duplicate injections, spiked recovery samples, and quality control standards analyzed alongside each batch.

Testing confirms label accuracy, verifies purity, and supports consistency in products formulated with carnitine derivatives.

This assay quantifies N-acetyl-L-tyrosine (NALT), an acetylated derivative of the amino acid tyrosine used in nootropic and performance supplements. Using HPLC, it measures NALT content in raw materials and finished products to verify potency, ensure label accuracy, and confirm consistency across production batches.

Samples are extracted in aqueous or methanolic solution and analyzed by HPLC with UV detection at a compound-specific wavelength (typically ~274 nm for aromatic amino acids). Quantification is performed using certified N-acetyl-L-tyrosine reference standards, with internal standard correction and duplicate injections to ensure reproducibility and accuracy.

Results are reported in mg per g or per serving. Values are compared against declared label claims and formulation specifications to confirm dosing accuracy, detect degradation, or identify adulteration.

This test quantifies naringin, a flavanone glycoside and the primary bitter bioactive compound found in grapefruit and other citrus fruits, in dietary supplements, citrus extracts, and raw materials using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with UV detection (HPLC-UV). Naringin is widely used as a potency marker for grapefruit and citrus bioflavonoid extracts and has been studied for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-modulating properties. Results are reported in mg per serving or as a percentage of extract weight to support label claim verification and cGMP compliance.

A representative sample is weighed and extracted using a methanol or ethanol-water solvent system with sonication or gentle heating to ensure complete solubilization of naringin from the matrix. The extract is filtered, diluted to volume, and injected onto a reversed-phase C18 HPLC column. Detection is performed by UV at approximately 283–284 nm, and quantification is performed against a multi-point external calibration curve prepared from a certified naringin reference standard. System suitability and QC samples are run concurrently to confirm method accuracy and reproducibility across the analytical run.

Naringin is the primary standardization marker for grapefruit extract and citrus bioflavonoid ingredients, and accurate quantification is essential for verifying extract potency and label claim compliance. HPLC-UV provides the selectivity needed to resolve naringin from structurally related flavonoids — including hesperidin, narirutin, and neohesperidin — that are commonly co-present in citrus-derived matrices, delivering reliable potency data for both raw material qualification and finished product release testing.

This assay quantifies NAD⁺ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), a vital coenzyme involved in redox reactions and mitochondrial energy metabolism. Using HPLC, it verifies NAD⁺ content in supplements and functional products to confirm bioactive potency and support claims related to energy, longevity, and cellular health.

Samples are extracted under cold, acid-stabilized conditions to preserve NAD⁺ integrity, then analyzed by HPLC with UV detection at a compound-specific wavelength. Quantification is performed using certified NAD⁺ standards with internal standard correction and duplicate injections to ensure precision.

Results are reported in mg per g or per serving. Values are compared to formulation targets and label claims to confirm potency and detect degradation, which NAD⁺ is particularly susceptible to in heat or pH-variable environments.