This panel quantifies common artificial sweeteners—including aspartame, acesulfame potassium (acesulfame K), saccharin, and sucralose—in food, beverage, and supplement samples. Using HPLC, it verifies sweetener levels for regulatory compliance, formulation accuracy, or “artificial sweetener-free” claims.

Samples are extracted in water or suitable solvents and filtered for analysis. The extract is analyzed by HPLC with UV detection at compound-specific wavelengths. Calibration with certified standards for each sweetener, along with internal standard correction and duplicate runs, ensures reliable quantification.

Results are reported in ppm (mg/kg or mg/L). The values are compared against label claims, regulatory thresholds (e.g., FDA, EU), or clean-label standards. This panel supports accurate product labeling, detects undeclared sweeteners, and ensures formulation compliance in diet and sugar-free products.

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 test quantifies total withanolides — a class of naturally occurring C28 steroidal lactones that are the principal bioactive constituents and primary standardization markers of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal) root and root extract — using HPLC with UV detection and/or LC-MS/MS. The withanolide family includes withaferin A, withanolide A, withanolide D, withanone, and numerous related steroidal lactone glycosides (withanosides), with withaferin A and withanolide A being the most pharmacologically characterized. Total withanolide content is the standard potency specification for ashwagandha extracts in the dietary supplement industry, with commercial standardized extracts typically containing 2.5–35% total withanolides depending on the extraction process and product tier. Accurate quantification is essential for label claim substantiation, raw material qualification, and ensuring batch-to-batch consistency. Results are reported as a percentage or in milligrams per gram or per serving of total withanolides, with individual withanolide species reported where LC-MS/MS profiling is applied.

A representative sample is accurately weighed and extracted using an appropriate organic solvent system (e.g., methanol or aqueous methanol) to ensure complete extraction of the withanolide fraction. For HPLC quantification, the extract is filtered and analyzed by reversed-phase HPLC on a C18 column with UV detection at 227 nm, the characteristic absorption maximum of the withanolide α,β-unsaturated δ-lactone chromophore. For LC-MS/MS profiling and quantification, the extract is analyzed using electrospray ionization (ESI) in positive ion mode with MRM transitions selected for individual withanolide species. Quantification is performed against a multi-point external calibration curve prepared from certified withanolide reference standards (e.g., withaferin A, withanolide A). Total withanolides are reported as the sum of all individually quantified withanolide species or, for HPLC-UV methods, as withaferin A equivalents. Quality control samples are run concurrently to confirm method accuracy, precision, and linearity throughout the analytical run.

Withanolides' α,β-unsaturated δ-lactone chromophore provides characteristic UV absorption at 227 nm, making HPLC with UV detection a practical and widely used method for total withanolide quantification in ashwagandha extracts. LC-MS/MS provides additional compound-specific selectivity for individual withanolide species profiling, enabling discrimination between pharmacologically distinct withanolides (e.g., withaferin A vs. withanolide A) and detection of adulteration or blending with withanolide-poor ashwagandha materials. The combination of both techniques supports comprehensive potency characterization, label claim substantiation, raw material qualification, and cGMP compliance under 21 CFR 111.

This assay qualitatively evaluates samples for the presence of Withania somnifera using High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC). The test compares characteristic chromatographic fingerprints to authenticated reference material to confirm botanical presence.

Samples are extracted and applied to an HPTLC plate alongside reference standards. After chromatographic development and visualization under appropriate conditions, the resulting banding pattern is evaluated for correspondence with the reference profile to determine presence or absence.

Testing supports ingredient verification, supplier qualification, and quality control for botanical materials without making potency claims.

This assay quantifies both free and esterified forms of astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant carotenoid found naturally in algae and marine sources. Testing ensures standardized potency and verifies the presence of bioactive carotenoid compounds.

Samples are extracted and analyzed under validated chromatographic conditions to distinguish and quantify free astaxanthin and its mono- and di-ester derivatives. Certified reference standards and quality controls ensure accurate and reproducible results.

Testing confirms ingredient standardization, verifies label claims, and supports product consistency across batches.

This assay detects and quantifies Bacillus cereus, a spore-forming bacterium that can cause foodborne illness or spoilage. Common in plant-based ingredients, protein powders, and shelf-stable formulations, B. cereus testing ensures microbial safety in raw materials and finished products.

Samples are homogenized and cultured on selective agar media specific for B. cereus, followed by incubation and colony enumeration. Confirmation may include biochemical tests or PCR. The method follows AOAC or FDA BAM (Bacteriological Analytical Manual) protocols.

Results are reported in CFU/g. Values are compared to industry standards and microbial limits based on product type (e.g., <100 CFU/g for powders or functional foods). This assay helps prevent safety risks and spoilage issues during storage and distribution.

This test confirms the botanical identity of Bacopa monnieri in raw materials and finished products using High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC). The characteristic bacosides A and B fingerprint of the sample is compared against a certified Bacopa monnieri reference standard to confirm species authenticity and detect substitution with other Bacopa species or unrelated botanical materials. Results are reported as confirmed identity or non-conforming.

A representative sample is extracted using methanol or ethanol-water and applied alongside a certified Bacopa monnieri reference standard onto an HPTLC silica gel plate. The plate is developed in a validated solvent system, derivatized with anisaldehyde-sulfuric acid or natural products reagent, and the fingerprint is compared visually and by densitometric scanning to the reference standard in terms of Rf values, band positions, and color profile.

Bacopa monnieri is a high-value nootropic botanical where accurate species identification is essential for confirming the presence of the characteristic bacoside compounds responsible for its cognitive benefits. HPTLC identity testing provides a rapid and defensible species confirmation, supporting supplier qualification and cGMP compliance under 21 CFR 111.

This test quantifies bacosides — the primary bioactive triterpenoid saponin glycosides found in Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi), including bacoside A and bacoside B and their component glycosides — in botanical extracts, raw materials, and dietary supplements using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Bacosides are the principal marker compounds used to standardize Bacopa extracts and are directly linked to the herb's documented effects on memory consolidation, cognitive performance, and neuroprotection. HPLC provides greater specificity than UV-Vis colorimetric methods by resolving individual bacoside components, offering a more detailed and accurate measure of extract potency. Results are reported as a percentage or in milligrams per gram or per serving.

A representative sample is accurately weighed and extracted using aqueous methanol or ethanol, with sonication to ensure complete dissolution of the saponin glycosides. The extract is filtered through a 0.2 µm membrane and analyzed by reversed-phase HPLC on a C18 column, with UV or Photodiode Array (PDA) detection at approximately 205–210 nm. Individual bacoside peaks are resolved chromatographically and quantified against a multi-point external calibration curve prepared from certified bacoside A or total bacoside reference standards. System suitability and quality control standards are run concurrently to confirm method accuracy and precision throughout the analytical run.

Bacopa monnieri extracts are commercially standardized to a declared bacoside content, and HPLC quantification provides a more specific and reproducible measure of individual bacoside components than colorimetric UV-Vis methods, which measure total saponin content without distinguishing between individual glycosides. This level of specificity is important for premium extract qualification, where the relative composition of individual bacosides may influence biological activity. HPLC potency testing supports label claim accuracy, supplier qualification, and cGMP compliance under 21 CFR 111.

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 the three key branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs)—leucine, isoleucine, and valine—using LC-MS/MS. Commonly found in protein powders, amino blends, and pre-workouts, this test verifies BCAA content and ratios to ensure compliance with label claims and prevent misformulation or ingredient dilution.

Samples are hydrolyzed or extracted depending on the matrix, then filtered and analyzed by LC-MS/MS. Detection is based on compound-specific mass transitions. Quantification is performed using high-purity amino acid standards, with internal standard correction and duplicate runs to ensure accuracy and reproducibility.

Results are reported in mg/g or mg per serving. Values are compared to declared label claims and standard 2:1:1 or other specified ratios. Testing confirms proper dosing and supports claims related to muscle recovery, endurance, and anabolic performance in sports nutrition products.

This assay quantifies berberine, an isoquinoline alkaloid commonly sourced from plants like Berberis and used in supplements for metabolic and cardiovascular support. Using HPLC, it measures berberine content in capsules, tablets, and botanical extracts to verify potency and ensure formulation accuracy.

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

Results are reported in mg per g or per serving. Values are compared to formulation targets and label claims to confirm consistent dosing and detect degradation or ingredient substitution.

This test quantifies berberine hydrochloride — an isoquinoline alkaloid and the primary bioactive constituent of botanical sources such as barberry (Berberis vulgaris), goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), and Oregon grape (Mahonia aquifolium) — in raw materials, extracts, and dietary supplements using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Berberine HCl is one of the most widely studied botanical actives, with a substantial body of clinical evidence supporting its role in glycemic control, lipid metabolism, and cardiovascular health. Accurate potency verification is essential for label claim substantiation and for confirming that the declared amount of this high-value alkaloid is present, particularly given the prevalence of adulteration and potency variability in berberine-containing raw materials. 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 solvent, typically dilute hydrochloric acid in methanol or aqueous methanol, to ensure complete extraction of berberine and its salt form. The extract is filtered and analyzed by reversed-phase HPLC on a C18 column with UV detection at 345 nm, the characteristic absorption maximum of berberine's quaternary ammonium chromophore. Quantification is performed against a multi-point external calibration curve prepared from a certified berberine hydrochloride reference standard. Where applicable, related alkaloids such as palmatine, coptisine, and jatrorrhizine may be monitored simultaneously to provide a more complete alkaloid profile. Quality control samples are run concurrently to confirm method accuracy, precision, and linearity throughout the analytical run.

Berberine's strong UV absorption at 345 nm makes HPLC with UV detection a highly sensitive and specific method for its quantification without the need for derivatization. The chromatographic separation resolves berberine from structurally related isoquinoline alkaloids that co-occur in berberine-containing botanicals, ensuring that potency results reflect the berberine HCl content specifically rather than total alkaloid content. This level of specificity is important for label claim accuracy and for detecting adulteration or dilution with lower-cost alkaloid-containing materials. The method supports raw material qualification, finished product release testing, and cGMP compliance under 21 CFR 111.

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 quantifies beta-alanine, a non-essential amino acid widely used in sports supplements to buffer lactic acid and delay fatigue. Using LC-MS/MS, it confirms the presence and potency of beta-alanine in pre-workouts, amino blends, and performance formulas to support label accuracy and product efficacy.

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

Results are reported in mg per g or per serving. Values are compared with formulation targets and declared label claims. Testing ensures that efficacious doses are delivered consistently across batches and helps guard against under-dosing or mislabeling.

This test quantifies beta-glucan — a soluble polysaccharide found in oats, barley, and fungal sources such as yeast and medicinal mushrooms — in raw materials, extracts, and dietary supplements using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Beta-glucan is one of the most extensively studied functional ingredients, with FDA-authorized health claims for oat and barley beta-glucan's role in reducing the risk of heart disease. Accurate potency verification is essential for substantiating label claims, confirming the source-appropriate beta-glucan structure (cereal vs. fungal), and ensuring that the declared amount of this functional fiber 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 subjected to a controlled enzymatic hydrolysis protocol to selectively degrade beta-glucan into its constituent glucose units while minimizing interference from starch and other polysaccharides. Starch is first removed by treatment with amyloglucosidase and invertase, followed by specific hydrolysis of the beta-glucan fraction using lichenase (endo-1,3:1,4-β-glucanase). The resulting oligosaccharide hydrolysate — primarily tri- and tetrasaccharides characteristic of (1→3),(1→4)-β-D-glucan — is analyzed by HPLC on a suitable carbohydrate column with refractive index (RI) or evaporative light scattering detection (ELSD). Quantification is performed against a multi-point external calibration curve prepared from a certified beta-glucan reference standard. Quality control samples are run concurrently to confirm method accuracy and precision.

Beta-glucan is a structurally complex polysaccharide whose potency cannot be accurately measured by simple gravimetric or total fiber methods, which do not distinguish between beta-glucan and other dietary fiber components. HPLC following selective enzymatic hydrolysis provides a specific and reproducible measure of true beta-glucan content, distinguishing it from starch, cellulose, and other polysaccharides in complex cereal and fungal matrices. This method is aligned with AOAC-validated approaches for beta-glucan quantification and supports FDA health claim compliance, label claim substantiation, and raw material qualification under 21 CFR 111.

This test quantifies beta-glucan — a soluble polysaccharide found in oats, barley, and fungal sources such as yeast and medicinal mushrooms — in raw materials, extracts, and dietary supplements using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Beta-glucan is one of the most extensively studied functional ingredients, with FDA-authorized health claims for oat and barley beta-glucan's role in reducing the risk of heart disease. Accurate potency verification is essential for substantiating label claims, confirming the source-appropriate beta-glucan structure (cereal vs. fungal), and ensuring that the declared amount of this functional fiber 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 subjected to a controlled enzymatic hydrolysis protocol to selectively degrade beta-glucan into its constituent glucose units while minimizing interference from starch and other polysaccharides. Starch is first removed by treatment with amyloglucosidase and invertase, followed by specific hydrolysis of the beta-glucan fraction using lichenase (endo-1,3:1,4-β-glucanase). The resulting oligosaccharide hydrolysate — primarily tri- and tetrasaccharides characteristic of (1→3),(1→4)-β-D-glucan — is analyzed by HPLC on a suitable carbohydrate column with refractive index (RI) or evaporative light scattering detection (ELSD). Quantification is performed against a multi-point external calibration curve prepared from a certified beta-glucan reference standard. Quality control samples are run concurrently to confirm method accuracy and precision.

Beta-glucan is a structurally complex polysaccharide whose potency cannot be accurately measured by simple gravimetric or total fiber methods, which do not distinguish between beta-glucan and other dietary fiber components. HPLC following selective enzymatic hydrolysis provides a specific and reproducible measure of true beta-glucan content, distinguishing it from starch, cellulose, and other polysaccharides in complex cereal and fungal matrices. This method is aligned with AOAC-validated approaches for beta-glucan quantification and supports FDA health claim compliance, label claim substantiation, and raw material qualification under 21 CFR 111.

This assay quantifies beta-glucan content using the enzymatic Megazyme method, which is AOAC- and AACC-approved for measuring beta-glucans in cereal grains, mushrooms, and dietary supplements. It is commonly used for standardizing oat and barley extracts as well as immune-support formulations.

Samples are enzymatically digested using lichenase and β-glucosidase to release glucose from beta-glucan polymers. The liberated glucose is then measured spectrophotometrically using glucose oxidase/peroxidase reagents.

Results are reported in % w/w or mg/g of beta-glucan. Values are compared to standardization targets and label claims to ensure active fiber content and formulation consistency.

This test quantifies betaine (trimethylglycine, TMG) — a naturally occurring trimethyl derivative of the amino acid glycine found in foods such as beets (Beta vulgaris), wheat germ, and spinach — in raw materials and dietary supplements using Liquid Chromatography coupled with Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Betaine functions as an osmolyte and methyl donor in one-carbon metabolism, supporting homocysteine remethylation, liver fat metabolism, and cellular hydration. It is widely used in dietary supplements for cardiovascular health, liver support, and sports performance applications. Accurate potency verification by LC-MS/MS is essential for specifically quantifying betaine and distinguishing it from structurally related compounds — including betaine aldehyde, choline, and carnitine — that may co-occur in complex botanical and food-derived matrices. 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 diluent. An isotopically labeled internal standard (e.g., betaine-d9 or ¹³C-labeled betaine) is added prior to sample preparation to correct for matrix effects and recovery variability. The extract is filtered and analyzed by reversed-phase or HILIC LC-MS/MS using electrospray ionization (ESI) in positive ion mode, with multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) transitions selected for the characteristic precursor and product ions of betaine (m/z 118 → 58 and 118 → 59 are commonly used transitions). Quantification is performed against a multi-point external calibration curve prepared from a certified betaine reference standard. Quality control samples are run concurrently to confirm method accuracy, precision, and linearity throughout the analytical run.

Betaine is a small, highly polar, permanently charged quaternary ammonium compound with no significant UV chromophore, making it poorly suited to standard reversed-phase HPLC with UV detection. LC-MS/MS with MRM detection provides the compound-specific selectivity and sensitivity required to accurately quantify betaine in complex food and supplement matrices, distinguishing it from isobaric and structurally related compounds such as choline, carnitine, and proline betaine that may co-occur and interfere with less specific analytical methods. The use of an isotopically labeled internal standard further ensures accurate quantification by correcting for matrix-dependent ionization effects. This method supports label claim substantiation, raw material qualification, and cGMP compliance under 21 CFR 111.

This test quantifies betaine nitrate — a salt combining trimethylglycine (betaine) and nitrate, used in sports nutrition formulations for its combined vasodilatory and performance-enhancing properties — in raw materials and dietary supplements using titration. Accurate quantification of betaine nitrate is essential for label claim verification and for confirming that the declared dose of this dual-function ingredient is present in the finished product. Titration provides a reliable, direct measure of the betaine nitrate content in high-purity raw material testing. Results are reported as a percentage purity or in milligrams per gram or per serving.

A representative sample is accurately weighed and dissolved in a suitable solvent. Depending on the validated protocol, either the nitrate component or the betaine component is targeted for titration. For nitrate quantification, a potentiometric or argentometric titration approach may be applied. For betaine quantification, a non-aqueous perchloric acid titration in glacial acetic acid may be used, exploiting the basic character of the trimethylglycine moiety. The endpoint is determined potentiometrically or by indicator color change, and the betaine nitrate content is calculated from the volume and molarity of titrant consumed relative to the sample weight. Reference standard checks and blank titrations are performed concurrently to confirm method accuracy.

Betaine nitrate is a relatively novel, premium sports nutrition ingredient where both the betaine and nitrate components contribute to its performance benefits, making accurate potency verification important for both label claim compliance and product efficacy. Titration provides a straightforward and cost-effective method for confirming the purity of betaine nitrate raw materials prior to use in formulation, supporting incoming material qualification and cGMP compliance under 21 CFR 111. For finished product testing in complex multi-ingredient matrices, complementary methods such as HPLC or IC may be required to provide adequate specificity.

This assay detects and quantifies bile-tolerant gram-negative bacteria (BTGN) in raw materials and finished dietary supplements using the method described in USP <2021>. BTGN testing helps ensure the absence of objectionable organisms and supports compliance with microbial limits in dietary products.

Samples are diluted and plated on MacConkey agar or another selective medium as specified by USP <2021>. Plates are incubated under aerobic conditions, and characteristic colonies of gram-negative, bile-tolerant bacteria are enumerated. Confirmatory testing may be performed as needed.

Results are reported in CFU/g. Values are compared to USP <2021> acceptance criteria, which typically require BTGN to be absent or ≤10³ CFU/g depending on the product category.