This assay quantifies theacrine, a purine alkaloid structurally similar to caffeine and marketed as TeaCrine. Using HPLC, it verifies theacrine content in energy, nootropic, and performance supplements to ensure consistent dosing and support claims related to mental clarity and stimulant-free endurance.

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 theacrine standards, with internal standard correction and duplicate injections to ensure accuracy and 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 underformulation or substitution with similar alkaloids.

This test quantifies theobromine, a methylxanthine compound commonly found in cocoa, chocolate products, and botanical extracts, using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Accurate measurement of theobromine is important for quality control and regulatory compliance in raw materials, finished products, capsules, and powders. The method provides detection limits suitable for trace-level quantification, reported in mg/kg or mg/L depending on the sample matrix.

Samples are prepared by solvent extraction using methanol-water (80:20 v/v) followed by filtration to remove particulates. The extract is injected into an HPLC system equipped with a C18 reversed-phase column and UV detection set at 272 nm, specific for theobromine absorption. Quantification is achieved by comparing peak areas to a calibration curve generated from certified theobromine reference standards across a defined concentration range. Quality control includes duplicate injections, analysis of spiked samples to assess recovery, and periodic injection of quality control standards to ensure method precision and accuracy.

Results are reported in mg/g (raw material) or mg/serving (finished products). Testing verifies product standardization, confirms label claims, and ensures quality consistency in cocoa- or caffeine-related formulations.

Thiourea is a compound that is not permitted for use in human food or dietary supplements by the FDA due to significant safety concerns, including potential carcinogenic effects. This test uses Liquid Chromatography with Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) to detect and quantify trace levels of Thiourea in a wide range of raw materials and finished products, ensuring they are free from this harmful adulterant.

A representative sample is homogenized and subjected to a solvent extraction, typically using methanol or an aqueous-organic mixture, to isolate Thiourea from the matrix. The resulting extract is then clarified and concentrated, often using a Solid-Phase Extraction (SPE) cleanup step to remove interfering compounds. The final extract is injected into a Liquid Chromatograph coupled to a Tandem Mass Spectrometer (LC-MS/MS), where Thiourea is quantified using a stable isotope-labeled internal standard and a multi-point calibration curve for accuracy.

Thiourea is a known animal carcinogen and is prohibited from use in human food by the FDA. Its potential presence as an undeclared substance or contaminant in raw materials poses a significant safety risk and a major regulatory compliance failure. Implementing a specific and sensitive LC-MS/MS method is essential for due diligence and to ensure products are safe and lawful for market.

This test measures the concentration of threonic acid (threonate), a small organic acid relevant for quality control in raw materials, finished products, capsules, and powders. The LC-MS/MS method offers precise quantification with high sensitivity and selectivity, enabling differentiation from closely related metabolites. Results are reported in micrograms per gram (µg/g) or milligrams per liter (mg/L) depending on the sample matrix.

Samples are prepared by extracting 0.5 g of powdered material or 1 mL of liquid with 5 mL of 0.1% formic acid in water, followed by centrifugation and filtration. The clear extract is injected into an LC-MS/MS system equipped with a reversed-phase column, using a gradient of water and acetonitrile both containing 0.1% formic acid. Threonic acid is detected in multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode with negative electrospray ionization. Quantification is performed using a calibration curve constructed from certified threonic acid standards, with an isotopically labeled internal standard added to each sample to correct for matrix effects. Method accuracy is verified through duplicate injections, quality control samples, and spike recovery experiments.

Results are reported in mg/g (raw material) or mg/serving (finished product). Testing confirms label accuracy, ensures standardized potency in mineral threonate salts (e.g., magnesium L-threonate), and supports product consistency.

This test quantifies thymoquinone (2-isopropyl-5-methylbenzo-1,4-quinone) — the principal bioactive constituent of black seed oil and black seed (Nigella sativa L.) extracts — in raw materials, fixed oils, and dietary supplements using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Thymoquinone is responsible for a significant portion of the pharmacological activity attributed to N. sativa, including its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and hepatoprotective effects. Accurate potency verification is essential for standardizing black seed oil and extract quality, verifying label claims, and ensuring that the declared amount of this key bioactive is present in the finished product. 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 organic solvent, typically methanol or acetonitrile, to ensure complete dissolution of thymoquinone. For black seed oil samples, a dilution step in an appropriate organic solvent is performed prior to injection. The extract is filtered and analyzed by reversed-phase HPLC on a C18 column with UV detection at 254 nm, the characteristic absorption maximum of thymoquinone's quinone chromophore. Quantification is performed against a multi-point external calibration curve prepared from a certified thymoquinone reference standard. Where applicable, related volatile constituents such as thymohydroquinone and thymol may be monitored simultaneously to provide a broader phytochemical profile. Quality control samples are run concurrently to confirm method accuracy, precision, and linearity throughout the analytical run.

Thymoquinone's quinone chromophore provides strong UV absorption at 254 nm, making HPLC with UV detection a sensitive and specific method for its quantification without the need for derivatization. Chromatographic separation on a C18 column resolves thymoquinone from structurally related compounds — including thymohydroquinone, dithymoquinone, and thymol — that co-occur in N. sativa oil and extracts, ensuring that potency results reflect thymoquinone content specifically. This specificity is important for label claim accuracy and for confirming the quality of black seed raw materials, which can vary considerably in thymoquinone content depending on geographic origin, variety, and processing conditions. The method supports raw material qualification, finished product release testing, and cGMP compliance under 21 CFR 111.

This assay confirms the identity of Tongkat Ali using High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC), a pharmacopeial method widely used for botanical authentication. It distinguishes genuine Tongkat Ali from common adulterants through unique compound fingerprinting.

Samples are extracted with appropriate solvents and applied to a silica gel plate alongside a reference standard. The plate is developed in a controlled mobile phase and visualized under UV light and post-derivatization. The sample chromatogram is compared to the reference fingerprint for botanical confirmation.

Results are reported as Pass/Fail or Match/No Match to the authenticated Tongkat Ali standard. This method helps confirm raw material authenticity and detect substitution or dilution with non-Eurycoma species.

This test quantifies total bacopa glycosides — the collective measure of bacosides and bacopasides responsible for the cognitive and neuroprotective activity of Bacopa monnieri — in botanical extracts, raw materials, and dietary supplements using UV-Visible (UV-Vis) Spectrophotometry. Bacopa extracts are commercially standardized to a declared total glycoside content, and this method provides a rapid, cost-effective means of verifying that the extract meets its standardization specification. Results are reported as a percentage of total bacopa glycosides to support label claim substantiation and incoming material qualification.

A representative sample is accurately weighed and extracted using a suitable solvent such as methanol or aqueous ethanol. The extract is reacted with a chromogenic reagent — typically vanillin-sulfuric acid or a similar colorimetric agent — under controlled conditions to produce a colored complex with the saponin glycosides present in the extract. The absorbance of the resulting solution is measured at the appropriate wavelength (typically 540–550 nm) against a reagent blank. Total glycoside content is calculated using the Beer-Lambert law with a specific extinction coefficient or by comparison to a calibration curve prepared from a bacoside reference standard. Measurements are performed in triplicate and averaged for final quantification.

Bacopa monnieri extracts are standardized on the basis of total bacoside content, and UV-Vis colorimetric quantification provides a practical and widely used method for verifying this specification in both raw materials and finished products. While it does not resolve individual glycoside species, the total glycoside measurement is the industry-standard potency parameter for Bacopa and is directly linked to the declared label claim. This method supports efficient quality control workflows and supplier qualification under 21 CFR 111.

This test quantifies total curcuminoids — the collective term for the three principal bioactive diarylheptanoid pigments of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.): curcumin (the most abundant, typically 60–70%), demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin — in raw materials, turmeric extracts, and dietary supplements using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Curcuminoids are the primary quality markers and bioactive constituents responsible for the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and other health-promoting properties attributed to turmeric. Total curcuminoid content is the standard potency specification for turmeric extracts, with commercial standardized extracts typically containing 95% total curcuminoids. Accurate HPLC quantification of all three individual curcuminoids — and their sum as total curcuminoids — is essential for label claim substantiation and for confirming that the full curcuminoid profile is present at the declared level. Results are reported as a percentage or in milligrams per gram or per serving for each individual curcuminoid and as a total.

A representative sample is accurately weighed and dissolved in an appropriate organic solvent, typically methanol or acetonitrile, to ensure complete dissolution of the curcuminoid fraction. The extract is filtered and analyzed by reversed-phase HPLC on a C18 column with UV detection at 425 nm, the characteristic absorption maximum of the curcuminoid chromophore arising from the extended conjugated diene-ketone system. Quantification of each individual curcuminoid (curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin) is performed against a multi-point external calibration curve prepared from certified reference standards for each compound. Total curcuminoids are reported as the sum of the three individually quantified curcuminoid concentrations. Quality control samples are run concurrently to confirm method accuracy, precision, and linearity throughout the analytical run.

HPLC with UV detection at 425 nm is the method of choice for total curcuminoid quantification, providing the chromatographic resolution necessary to separately identify and quantify all three curcuminoid species — curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin — which cannot be individually resolved by UV-Vis spectrophotometry alone. Individual quantification of each curcuminoid is important because their relative proportions vary between turmeric varieties, growing regions, and extraction processes, and because each curcuminoid contributes independently to the total bioactive profile. This approach provides more complete and accurate potency data than total curcuminoid UV-Vis methods and supports label claim substantiation, raw material qualification, and cGMP compliance under 21 CFR 111.

This assay quantifies the combined content of dissolved substances such as minerals, salts, metals, and organic compounds. TDS is a key indicator of water purity, taste, and suitability for use in food, beverage, and supplement manufacturing.

Samples are analyzed for total dissolved solids by measuring the residue left after evaporation and drying of the filtrate, or by correlation with conductivity measurements. Quality controls confirm accuracy and reproducibility.

Results are reported in mg/L (ppm). Monitoring TDS ensures compliance with water quality standards, identifies potential contamination, and supports consistent product formulation.

This assay detects milk proteins in food samples to confirm that products are either free of milk contamination or contain milk as intended. Milk allergens are highly potent and even trace amounts can trigger allergic reactions, making accurate detection critical.

Samples are extracted using a buffer optimized for milk protein recovery and applied to ELISA plates coated with milk-specific antibodies. After incubation and washing, a secondary enzyme-linked antibody is added and a color reaction is developed. The absorbance is measured against a calibration curve generated with milk protein standards, and duplicate analyses verify accuracy.

Results are expressed in ppm. Non-detectable values confirm that the product is free of milk allergens, while any measurable level indicates potential cross-contact, requiring review of manufacturing practices.

This test estimates the total number of viable aerobic bacteria in a product, indicating overall microbial load and hygiene quality.

A sample is diluted, plated on general growth media, and incubated under aerobic conditions. Colonies are counted and reported as CFU/g or CFU/mL.

Low counts suggest good hygiene and handling; high counts may indicate poor sanitation or contamination.

This assay quantifies total polyphenols using the Folin-Ciocalteu colorimetric method with UV-Vis detection. The method reflects the combined reducing capacity of phenolic compounds present in the sample.

Samples are extracted and reacted with the Folin-Ciocalteu reagent under alkaline conditions, producing a blue chromophore. Absorbance is measured by UV-Vis spectrophotometry and compared against a gallic acid calibration curve to calculate total polyphenol content.

Results are reported as mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE) per g (solids) or per serving (finished products). Testing provides a standardized measure of antioxidant potential, verifies label claims, and ensures batch-to-batch consistency.

This test measures total Vitamin A content by quantifying retinol, retinyl acetate, retinyl palmitate, alpha-carotene, and beta-carotene in raw materials, finished products, capsules, and powders. Using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), it provides precise levels of both preformed Vitamin A and provitamin A carotenoids, essential for verifying product potency and meeting nutritional labeling standards. Results are reported in micrograms or International Units (IU) per serving or weight.

Samples are saponified with ethanolic potassium hydroxide to release Vitamin A compounds, followed by extraction into hexane. The hexane layer is evaporated and reconstituted in mobile phase before injection. Separation is performed using HPLC with a C18 column and detection at 325 nm for retinol derivatives and 450 nm for carotenoids. Quantification is achieved by comparing peak areas to calibration curves generated from certified reference standards for each analyte. Quality control includes duplicate injections, spike recovery tests, and analysis of standard reference materials to ensure accuracy and precision.

Results are reported in µg/g or mg/g (raw materials) or per-serving values for finished products. Testing verifies total Vitamin A potency, supports label claims, and ensures product consistency.

This test measures the concentrations of Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) and the key Vitamin K2 forms (menaquinones MK-4 and MK-7) in raw materials, finished products, capsules, and powders. Accurate quantification of these fat-soluble vitamins is essential for ensuring product quality and supporting nutritional labeling and regulatory compliance. The analysis is performed using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) with sensitivity suitable for detecting low microgram levels per gram of sample.

Samples are first extracted using an organic solvent mixture to isolate fat-soluble vitamers, followed by saponification to release bound forms. The extract is then injected into an HPLC system equipped with a reverse-phase column and detected using fluorescence detection at excitation and emission wavelengths optimized for Vitamin K compounds. Quantification is achieved by comparing peak areas to calibration curves prepared from certified reference standards for phylloquinone, MK-4, and MK-7. Method accuracy and precision are confirmed through duplicate sample analyses, inclusion of quality control samples, and spike recovery tests.

Results are reported in µg/g (raw materials) or µg/serving (finished products). Testing verifies Vitamin K potency, confirms label claims, and ensures batch-to-batch consistency.

This test determines the Total Oxidation Value (TOTOX) of oils, fats, and lipid-containing dietary supplements using a calculated method that integrates two complementary oxidation markers: the Peroxide Value (PV), which measures primary oxidation products (lipid hydroperoxides), and the Anisidine Value (AV), which measures secondary oxidation products (aldehydes, principally 2-alkenals). TOTOX is calculated using the established formula: TOTOX = 2 × PV + AV. Because PV and AV measure different stages of the lipid oxidation cascade, TOTOX provides a more complete and reliable picture of overall oxidation status than either parameter alone — PV reflects current oxidation activity while AV reflects the cumulative history of oxidation. TOTOX is widely used for quality control of fish oils, omega-3 concentrates, vegetable oils, and other lipid-rich dietary supplement ingredients. Results are reported as a dimensionless TOTOX value, with industry-standard limits typically set at ≤ 26 for fish oil (GOED voluntary monograph) and similar thresholds for other oil types.

TOTOX is calculated from the results of two independently performed oxidation assays conducted on the same representative sample. The Peroxide Value (PV) is determined by iodometric titration (AOCS Cd 8b-90 or equivalent), in which lipid hydroperoxides oxidize iodide to iodine, which is then titrated with standardized sodium thiosulfate solution; results are expressed in milliequivalents of active oxygen per kilogram of oil (meq O₂/kg). The Anisidine Value (AV) is determined by UV-Vis spectrophotometry (AOCS Cd 18-90 or equivalent), in which p-anisidine reacts with aldehydic secondary oxidation products to form a colored Schiff base measured at 350 nm; results are expressed as a dimensionless absorbance-based value. The TOTOX value is then calculated by applying the formula TOTOX = 2 × PV + AV to the individually determined PV and AV results.

Neither PV nor AV alone provides a complete assessment of lipid oxidation status: PV reflects only current hydroperoxide levels and can decrease as oxidation progresses to secondary products, while AV captures the accumulated aldehyde burden but does not reflect active peroxide formation. The TOTOX calculation integrates both parameters to provide a single composite index that accounts for both the current and historical oxidation status of the oil, making it a more robust and informative quality indicator than either measurement in isolation. TOTOX is the standard composite oxidation index used by the Global Organization for EPA and DHA Omega-3s (GOED) and other industry bodies for fish oil and omega-3 product quality specifications, and supports raw material qualification, finished product release, and cGMP compliance under 21 CFR 111.

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 trimethylglycine (betaine), a naturally occurring methyl donor used in supplements for cardiovascular, cognitive, and athletic performance support. Using LC-MS/MS, it verifies betaine content in powders, capsules, and functional beverages to ensure proper dosing and formulation accuracy.

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

This assay quantifies tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA), a bile acid conjugate used in liver support and cellular health supplements. Using HPLC, it verifies TUDCA content in capsules, powders, and functional formulations to confirm label accuracy and ensure consistent therapeutic dosing.

Samples are extracted in aqueous or methanolic solution and analyzed by HPLC with UV detection at a compound-specific wavelength. Quantification is performed using certified TUDCA standards, with internal standard correction and duplicate injections to ensure accurate and reproducible results.

Results are reported in mg per g or per serving. Values are assessed against formulation targets and declared label claims to verify potency and detect degradation or underformulation.

This assay evaluates the cloudiness or haziness of a liquid caused by suspended particles. Turbidity is an important indicator of water quality, processing effectiveness, and potential contamination.

Samples are analyzed for light scattering caused by suspended particles under controlled conditions. Results are compared against regulatory or internal quality specifications.

Results are reported in Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTU). Monitoring turbidity ensures compliance with drinking water regulations, confirms process consistency, and protects product quality.

This assay quantifies turkesterone, an ecdysteroid compound typically derived from Ajuga turkestanica. Using HPLC, it verifies turkesterone content in capsules, powders, and botanical extracts to confirm label claims and support product consistency in sports performance and adaptogenic formulations.

Samples are extracted using methanol or ethanol-based solvents under temperature-controlled conditions, then analyzed by HPLC with UV detection at a compound-specific wavelength. Quantification is performed using certified turkesterone standards, with internal standard correction and duplicate injections to ensure accuracy.

Results are reported in mg per g or per serving. Values are compared to formulation targets and declared label claims to confirm active content and detect adulteration or low-potency extracts.

This test confirms the botanical identity of turmeric (Curcuma longa) in raw materials and finished products using High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC). The characteristic curcuminoid fingerprint — including curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin — of the sample is compared against a certified Curcuma longa reference standard to confirm species authenticity and detect substitution with other Curcuma species, synthetic curcumin colorants, or unrelated botanical materials. Results are reported as confirmed identity or non-conforming.

A representative sample is extracted using methanol or ethanol and applied alongside a certified Curcuma longa reference standard onto an HPTLC silica gel plate. The plate is developed in a validated solvent system, examined under UV at 366 nm to visualize the characteristic fluorescent curcuminoid bands, and the resulting fingerprint is compared visually and by densitometric scanning to the reference standard in terms of Rf values, band positions, and fluorescence profile.

Turmeric is one of the most widely consumed botanical ingredients globally and is a well-documented target for adulteration — including spiking with synthetic curcumin, addition of lead chromate as a yellow colorant, and substitution with other Curcuma species. HPTLC identity testing based on the curcuminoid fingerprint provides a rapid and defensible species confirmation, supporting supplier qualification and cGMP compliance under 21 CFR 111.

This assay quantifies ubiquinol, the reduced and bioactive form of Coenzyme Q10, in supplements and functional products. Using HPLC, it verifies ubiquinol content to support label accuracy and ensure stability in formulations targeting mitochondrial health and oxidative stress.

Samples are extracted under oxygen- and light-protected conditions to prevent oxidation to ubiquinone. The extract is analyzed by HPLC with UV detection at a compound-specific wavelength. Quantification is performed using certified ubiquinol standards, with internal standard correction and duplicate runs for precision.

Results are reported in mg per g or per serving. Values are compared to formulation targets and label claims to confirm dosing and detect oxidation or degradation in stored products.

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 quantifies urolithin A, a gut-derived metabolite of ellagitannins known for its role in promoting mitophagy and cellular energy. Using HPLC, it verifies urolithin A content in longevity and performance supplements to confirm label accuracy and consistent bioactive delivery.

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

Results are reported in mg per g or per serving. Values are assessed against formulation targets and label claims to confirm standardized dosing and detect degradation or variability in raw material quality.