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.

A comprehensive nutritional profile assay that consolidates the measurement of primary macronutrients—protein, carbohydrates, and fats—and calculates the total caloric content for nutritional labeling and quality control.

The assay integrates multiple analytical methods: protein is measured using the Dumas combustion method; fat is determined by solvent extraction (e.g., Soxhlet) and gravimetric analysis; carbohydrates are calculated by difference (or summing measured sugars/starches); and caloric content is derived either via bomb calorimetry or standard conversion factors. Calibration with certified standards and duplicate analyses ensure reliability across components.

Results are reported as grams per 100 g (or per serving) for protein, carbohydrates, and fats, along with total calories per 100 g (or per serving). Consistency in these values confirms formulation accuracy, while any deviations may indicate processing or measurement issues that require further investigation.

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 test identifies and quantifies sodium copper chlorophyllin (SCC; E-141ii) — a water-soluble, semi-synthetic derivative of chlorophyll in which the central magnesium ion is replaced by copper and the phytol ester chain is saponified to yield water-soluble chlorin carboxylate salts — in raw materials and dietary supplements using Liquid Chromatography coupled with Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Sodium copper chlorophyllin is used in dietary supplements as an antioxidant, internal deodorant, and natural green colorant, and is approved as a food color additive (E-141) in many international markets. LC-MS/MS enables the specific identification and quantification of the characteristic copper chlorin species (copper chlorin e4, e6, and related homologs) that constitute sodium copper chlorophyllin, distinguishing it from natural chlorophylls, magnesium chlorophylls, and other chlorophyll derivatives. Results are reported as a percentage or in milligrams per gram or per serving.

A representative sample is accurately weighed and dissolved in an appropriate aqueous or aqueous-organic solvent system (e.g., aqueous methanol or acetonitrile with ammonium acetate buffer) to ensure complete dissolution of the water-soluble copper chlorin salts. An isotopically labeled or structurally analogous internal standard is added prior to sample preparation to correct for matrix effects and recovery variability. The extract is filtered and analyzed by reversed-phase LC-MS/MS using electrospray ionization (ESI) in negative ion mode — preferred for chlorophyll derivatives due to the carboxylate functionality — with multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) transitions selected for the characteristic copper chlorin species. Quantification is performed against a multi-point external calibration curve prepared from a certified sodium copper chlorophyllin reference standard. Quality control samples are run concurrently to confirm method accuracy, precision, and linearity throughout the analytical run.

Sodium copper chlorophyllin is a complex mixture of semi-synthetic copper chlorin derivatives whose composition cannot be adequately characterized by UV-Vis spectrophotometry alone, as natural chlorophylls, magnesium chlorophylls, and copper chlorophyllin derivatives share overlapping absorption spectra. LC-MS/MS with MRM detection provides the compound-specific selectivity required to unambiguously identify and quantify the characteristic copper chlorin species of SCC, confirming both the copper substitution (distinguishing SCC from natural magnesium chlorophylls) and the saponification state (distinguishing SCC from copper chlorophyll, E-141i). This level of specificity is important for regulatory compliance with food color additive specifications, label claim accuracy, and cGMP compliance under 21 CFR 111.

This assay identifies soy proteins in food samples using a highly specific ELISA method. It is used to verify allergen claims and prevent unintended exposure for soy-allergic consumers, even in processed foods where proteins may be partially denatured.

The sample is extracted with a buffer that efficiently solubilizes soy proteins. The extract is incubated on an ELISA plate coated with soy-specific antibodies. After washing, a secondary antibody linked to an enzyme is added, followed by development of a color reaction. The absorbance is compared to a standard curve generated from soy protein standards, with quality controls ensuring reproducibility.

Results are provided in ppm. Non-detectable or very low levels confirm that soy is either absent or present only in trace amounts, while significant detection indicates potential cross-contact that needs to be addressed.

This assay quantifies spermidine, a naturally occurring polyamine involved in cellular growth and longevity pathways. Using LC-MS/MS, it verifies spermidine content in dietary supplements, functional foods, and longevity formulations to confirm label accuracy and support anti-aging claims.

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

Results are reported in mg per g or per serving. Values are compared to formulation targets and declared label claims to ensure proper dosing and detect degradation or inconsistencies in raw material quality.

This test quantifies spermidine trihydrochloride, the salt form of spermidine used in dietary supplement formulations, in supplements and raw materials using Liquid Chromatography with Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Spermidine is a naturally occurring polyamine found in wheat germ, aged cheese, and other foods, and has attracted significant research interest for its role in inducing autophagy — the cellular self-cleaning process associated with healthy aging and longevity. LC-MS/MS is required for this analysis due to the highly polar, low-UV-absorbing nature of spermidine and its presence at microgram-level doses in supplement formulations. Results are reported in mg per serving or mg per gram to support label claim verification and cGMP compliance.

A representative sample is weighed and extracted using an aqueous acidic solvent or dilute hydrochloric acid solution to ensure complete solubilization of spermidine trihydrochloride. The clarified extract is injected onto a reversed-phase C18 or HILIC column coupled to a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer operating in positive ionization Multiple Reaction Monitoring (MRM) mode. Specific precursor-to-product ion transitions characteristic of spermidine are monitored for quantification and identity confirmation. Quantification is performed against a multi-point calibration curve prepared from a certified spermidine reference standard, with a stable isotope-labeled internal standard used to correct for matrix effects and ensure accurate recovery across the sample types tested.

Spermidine is a highly polar, low-molecular-weight polyamine that lacks meaningful UV absorbance, making HPLC-UV methods impractical for its direct quantification at the microgram doses used in supplement formulations. LC-MS/MS in MRM mode provides the sensitivity and molecular specificity required to accurately detect and quantify spermidine in complex matrices, distinguishing it from structurally related polyamines such as putrescine and spermine that may be co-present in wheat germ and other botanical raw materials.

This test confirms the identity of spirulina — primarily Arthrospira platensis and Arthrospira maxima, cyanobacteria (blue-green microalgae) widely marketed under the common name spirulina — in raw materials, dried powders, and dietary supplements using High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC). Spirulina is one of the most widely consumed microalgae-based dietary supplements globally, valued for its high protein content, complete amino acid profile, and rich concentration of bioactive pigments including phycocyanin (blue), chlorophylls a and b (green), and carotenoids (β-carotene, zeaxanthin). HPTLC identity testing generates a characteristic pigment-based chromatographic fingerprint that is compared against an authenticated spirulina reference standard to confirm species identity and detect potential adulteration, substitution with other microalgae (e.g., Chlorella spp.), or blending with non-algal plant materials.

A representative sample is accurately weighed and extracted using an appropriate solvent system (e.g., methanol or acetone) to capture the characteristic pigment profile of spirulina, including chlorophylls, carotenoids, and phycocyanin-derived chromophores. The extract is applied alongside a certified spirulina reference standard and, where applicable, potential adulterant extracts (e.g., Chlorella powder), onto an HPTLC silica gel plate using an automated sample applicator. The plate is developed in a validated non-polar solvent system optimized to resolve the characteristic pigment bands of spirulina, including chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, β-carotene, and zeaxanthin. After development, the plate is evaluated under white light and UV light at 254 nm and 366 nm, where the characteristic green, yellow, and orange pigment bands of spirulina are visualized without derivatization. The resulting fingerprint pattern is compared visually and, where applicable, by densitometric analysis to the authenticated reference standard in accordance with established HPTLC identity testing guidelines.

Spirulina is subject to adulteration and species substitution, including blending with Chlorella or other microalgae, synthetic colorants, or non-algal plant powders, particularly given its premium market positioning and the difficulty of visual inspection of dried powder materials. HPTLC pigment fingerprinting provides a holistic, multi-compound chromatographic identity confirmation that exploits the distinctive and characteristic pigment composition of Arthrospira species — notably the presence of phycocyanin-derived chromophores and the specific chlorophyll and carotenoid profile — to distinguish authentic spirulina from potential substitutes and adulterants. This method aligns with USP botanical identity testing guidelines and supports cGMP compliance under 21 CFR 111, ensuring that only correctly identified raw materials are used in finished products.

This test identifies Staphylococcus aureus, a bacteria that produces toxins and is associated with improper food handling.

Samples are plated on selective media and confirmed through coagulase testing or molecular assays. Reported in CFU/g.

Low or absent levels are expected. High counts may indicate unsafe handling or contamination.

This assay measures major stevia glycosides—including stevioside and rebaudiosides A, B, C, and M—using Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The method provides high specificity and sensitivity for accurate profiling of stevia sweetener composition.

Samples are extracted and analyzed under validated LC-MS/MS chromatographic conditions. Individual stevia glycosides are detected using multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) and quantified against certified reference standards. Internal calibration and quality control checks ensure accuracy and reproducibility.

Testing verifies sweetener composition, supports label claims, and ensures batch-to-batch consistency for stevia-based formulations.

This assay quantifies strontium, a naturally occurring trace element sometimes used in bone health supplements. Using ICP-MS, it measures strontium levels in raw materials and finished products to verify potency, confirm label claims, or monitor for excess levels as part of a heavy metal screen.

This assay quantifies strontium, a naturally occurring trace element sometimes used in bone health supplements. Using ICP-MS, it measures strontium levels in raw materials and finished products to verify potency, confirm label claims, or monitor for excess levels as part of a heavy metal screen.

Results are reported in ppm (mg/kg), µg/g, or per serving depending on the matrix. Values are compared with label claims (if strontium is an active ingredient) or safety thresholds to ensure product integrity and compliance.

This test quantifies individual sugar alcohols (polyols) in food, dietary supplement, and raw material matrices using Liquid Chromatography coupled with Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Sugar alcohols are widely used as low-calorie sweeteners, humectants, and bulking agents in dietary supplements, functional foods, and confectionery products, and their accurate quantification is important for nutritional labeling compliance under 21 CFR 101, which requires declaration of sugar alcohol content when a sugar alcohol is added to a food or when a claim is made about sugar alcohols. LC-MS/MS provides the sensitivity and compound-specific selectivity required to simultaneously identify and quantify individual sugar alcohol species in complex matrices where multiple polyols and carbohydrates may co-occur. Results are reported in milligrams per gram or per serving for each individual sugar alcohol detected.

A representative sample is accurately weighed and dissolved in an appropriate aqueous diluent. Isotopically labeled internal standards (e.g., deuterium-labeled polyols) are added prior to sample preparation to correct for matrix effects and recovery variability. The extract is filtered and analyzed by HILIC or reversed-phase LC-MS/MS using electrospray ionization (ESI) in positive or negative ion mode, with multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) transitions selected for each target sugar alcohol. Because sugar alcohols share similar molecular weights and fragmentation patterns, careful selection of MRM transitions and chromatographic conditions is critical to resolve individual species — particularly structural isomers such as sorbitol and mannitol, which have identical molecular weights and require chromatographic separation for individual quantification. Quantification is performed against multi-point external calibration curves prepared from certified reference standards for each target sugar alcohol. Quality control samples are run concurrently to confirm method accuracy, precision, and linearity.

Sugar alcohols are small, highly polar, non-UV-absorbing compounds that are poorly retained on standard reversed-phase HPLC columns and cannot be reliably resolved or quantified by refractive index detection in complex matrices. LC-MS/MS with HILIC chromatography and MRM detection provides the retention, resolution, and compound-specific selectivity needed to simultaneously quantify individual sugar alcohol species — including difficult-to-resolve isomeric pairs such as sorbitol and mannitol — in the presence of sugars, amino acids, and other polar matrix components. This approach supports accurate nutritional labeling compliance under 21 CFR 101, raw material qualification, and cGMP compliance under 21 CFR 111.

This assay quantifies key dietary sugars—glucose, fructose, and sucrose—in food, beverage, and nutrition products. Using LC-MS/MS, it verifies total and individual sugar content to support nutrition label compliance and detect the presence of undeclared or added sugars in “no sugar” or “natural” claims.

Samples are extracted in water or dilute acid, filtered, and injected into the LC-MS/MS system. Detection is performed using mass-specific transitions for each sugar. Quantification is achieved using certified sugar standards, internal standard correction, and duplicate injections to ensure precise and defensible results.

Results are reported in g/100 g, g/100 mL, or per serving. Values are assessed against label claims and regulatory thresholds (e.g., FDA nutrition labeling). This panel helps validate “no added sugar” or “low sugar” claims and ensures brand transparency in functional beverages, juices, and powdered mixes.

This assay quantifies sulfate (SO₄²⁻), a common anion found in water and raw materials. Elevated sulfate levels can affect taste, product stability, and consumer safety.

Samples are prepared and analyzed for sulfate content using validated analytical techniques with calibration against certified standards. Quality controls verify 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. Monitoring sulfate ensures compliance with drinking water standards, prevents off-flavors, and maintains product integrity.

This assay quantifies sulfites (including sulfur dioxide) in food, beverage, and supplement products using LC-MS/MS. It is used to detect trace levels of sulfiting agents—commonly added as preservatives—to support allergen labeling, confirm "sulfite-free" claims, or comply with regulatory thresholds.

Samples are extracted and derivatized to stabilize free and bound sulfites, then analyzed by LC-MS/MS using compound-specific mass transitions. Quantification is performed using certified sulfite standards with internal standard correction and duplicate injections for precision.

Results are reported in ppm (mg/kg) as total sulfites. Values are compared to international regulatory thresholds (e.g., ≥10 ppm triggers labeling in the U.S. and EU) to ensure compliance and support accurate claims.

This assay detects and enumerates sulfite-reducing Clostridia, anaerobic spore-forming bacteria that can indicate contamination risk in foods, supplements, and raw materials. These organisms are commonly monitored as hygiene and safety indicators, particularly in low-oxygen or heat-processed products.

Samples are prepared and analyzed according to USP 2022 methodology. Testing involves anaerobic incubation on selective sulfite-containing media that supports growth of sulfite-reducing Clostridia. Colonies exhibiting characteristic sulfite reduction are enumerated and reported.

Testing supports microbiological quality programs, verifies compliance with pharmacopeial standards, and helps identify contamination risks associated with anaerobic spore-formers.

This test quantifies sulforaphane, the bioactive isothiocyanate derived from enzymatic hydrolysis of glucoraphanin in broccoli (Brassica oleracea) sprout and seed extracts, in dietary supplements and raw materials using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with UV detection (HPLC-UV). Sulforaphane is the primary bioactive compound responsible for the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and phase II enzyme-inducing properties of broccoli-derived ingredients, and its direct quantification confirms the amount of active compound present rather than its precursor. Results are reported in mg per serving or µmol per gram to support label claim verification and cGMP compliance.

A representative sample is weighed and extracted using an acetonitrile-water or methanol-water solvent system with sonication to ensure complete recovery of sulforaphane from the matrix. Where the sample contains intact myrosinase enzyme, a controlled enzymatic hydrolysis step may be performed prior to extraction to convert residual glucoraphanin to sulforaphane before analysis. The clarified extract is filtered, diluted to volume, and injected onto a reversed-phase C18 HPLC column. Detection is performed by UV at approximately 210–254 nm, and quantification is performed against a multi-point external calibration curve prepared from a certified sulforaphane reference standard. All sample preparation steps are conducted promptly to minimize sulforaphane degradation, and system suitability and QC samples are run concurrently to confirm method performance.

While glucoraphanin quantification measures the precursor pool, direct sulforaphane measurement confirms the actual bioactive content present in the finished product — a distinction that matters for products where myrosinase is co-formulated or where conversion has already occurred during processing. HPLC-UV provides adequate sensitivity and selectivity for sulforaphane quantification in most broccoli extract matrices, and its use alongside or in place of glucoraphanin testing gives brands a more complete picture of product potency for label claim substantiation and consumer transparency.

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 sulfur dioxide (SO₂), a commonly used preservative and antioxidant. SO₂ helps prevent microbial growth and oxidation but is strictly regulated due to potential allergenic and sensitivity concerns.

Samples are analyzed for total and/or free sulfur dioxide content using validated analytical techniques suitable for the matrix type. Quality control standards and calibration procedures ensure accuracy and reproducibility.

Results are reported in mg/kg (solids) or mg/L (liquids). Testing ensures compliance with FDA, EU, and Codex limits, verifies product labeling, and protects consumer safety.

This test confirms the identity and source authenticity of sunflower lecithin — a complex mixture of phospholipids, glycolipids, and neutral lipids derived from sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) seeds — in raw materials and dietary supplements using High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC). Sunflower lecithin is increasingly used as a soy-free and non-GMO alternative to soy lecithin in dietary supplements and functional foods, valued for its phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), and phosphatidylinositol (PI) content. HPTLC identity testing generates a characteristic phospholipid class fingerprint that is compared against an authenticated sunflower lecithin reference standard to confirm source identity and detect potential substitution with soy lecithin or other lecithin sources, which is of particular importance for allergen management and non-GMO labeling claims.

A representative sample is accurately weighed and dissolved in an appropriate lipid solvent system (e.g., chloroform/methanol or dichloromethane/methanol) to ensure complete dissolution of the phospholipid fraction. The extract is applied alongside a certified sunflower lecithin reference standard and, where applicable, soy lecithin and other potential substitute lecithin sources, onto an HPTLC silica gel plate using an automated sample applicator. The plate is developed in a validated non-polar to moderately polar solvent system optimized to resolve the major phospholipid classes characteristic of lecithin — including phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylinositol, and lysophosphatidylcholine. After development, the plate is derivatized with an appropriate reagent (e.g., molybdenum blue reagent for phospholipid-specific visualization, or primuline under UV 366 nm) and evaluated under white light and UV light at 254 nm and 366 nm. The resulting phospholipid class fingerprint is compared visually and, where applicable, by densitometric analysis to the authenticated sunflower lecithin reference standard.

Sunflower lecithin and soy lecithin share similar phospholipid class compositions, making source authentication by simple phospholipid class profiling alone insufficient for definitive identity confirmation. HPTLC fingerprinting of the full lipid class profile — including characteristic differences in the relative proportions and minor lipid constituents between sunflower and soy lecithin — provides a practical and discriminating identity confirmation method for routine quality control. This is particularly important for products marketed as soy-free, allergen-free, or non-GMO, where substitution of sunflower lecithin with soy lecithin would constitute both a labeling violation and a potential allergen risk. The method supports raw material qualification, allergen management, and cGMP compliance under 21 CFR 111.

This assay quantifies taurine, a sulfur-containing amino acid commonly used in energy drinks, hydration products, and performance supplements. Using LC-MS/MS, it verifies taurine content to confirm label accuracy and support consistency in functional formulations.

Samples are extracted in aqueous solution and analyzed by LC-MS/MS using compound-specific mass transitions. Quantification is performed with certified taurine 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 to formulation targets and label claims to confirm dosing, detect degradation, and ensure batch-to-batch consistency.

This assay quantifies total terpene lactones (including ginkgolides A, B, C, and bilobalide) in Ginkgo biloba extracts using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Terpene lactones are characteristic markers required for quality control and standardization of Ginkgo supplements.

Samples are extracted and analyzed by HPLC under validated chromatographic conditions. Individual terpene lactones are separated and quantified against certified reference standards. Results are summed to provide total terpene lactone content.

Results are reported as % w/w (raw materials) or mg/serving (finished products). Testing verifies standardized potency (often paired with flavonol glycosides for full Ginkgo profile), confirms raw material authenticity, and ensures label claim accuracy.

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.

This test quantifies thaumatin — a naturally occurring sweet-tasting protein extracted from the fruit of Thaumatococcus daniellii (katemfe fruit), approximately 2,000–3,000 times sweeter than sucrose by weight — in food products, dietary supplements, and raw materials using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Thaumatin is approved as a natural sweetener and flavor modifier in numerous markets and is used at very low concentrations to provide sweetness and mask bitter or off-notes in formulations. Accurate quantification is important for verifying the declared use level, confirming ingredient identity, and ensuring compliance with applicable regulatory specifications. Results are reported in milligrams per gram or per serving.

A representative sample is accurately weighed and extracted in a suitable aqueous buffer to solubilize the protein, with any necessary clarification steps applied to remove interfering matrix components. The extract is filtered through a 0.2 µm membrane and analyzed by reversed-phase HPLC on a C18 or C4 column, with UV detection at 280 nm — the characteristic protein absorbance wavelength. Quantification is performed against a multi-point external calibration curve prepared from a certified thaumatin reference standard. Peak identity is confirmed by retention time comparison to the reference standard, and system suitability and quality control standards are run concurrently to confirm method accuracy and precision throughout the analytical run.

Thaumatin is used at very low concentrations — typically in the microgram to low milligram per serving range — making accurate HPLC quantification essential for confirming that the declared use level is present and that the ingredient has not been diluted or substituted. As a protein-based sweetener, thaumatin requires a chromatographic method capable of resolving it from other proteins and matrix components, and reversed-phase HPLC with UV detection at 280 nm provides the specificity and sensitivity needed for this purpose. This test supports ingredient authentication, label claim accuracy, and regulatory compliance for thaumatin as a permitted food additive.