This test quantifies cordycepin (3'-deoxyadenosine) — a naturally occurring adenosine analog and the principal bioactive nucleoside constituent of Cordyceps militaris — in raw materials, fungal extracts, and dietary supplements using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Cordycepin is one of the most pharmacologically significant compounds in the Cordyceps genus, with a growing body of research supporting its roles in energy metabolism, immune modulation, anti-inflammatory activity, and cellular health. It is used as a key potency marker to differentiate high-quality C. militaris extracts from Cordyceps sinensis and mycelium-based products, which typically contain little to no cordycepin. Accurate quantification is essential for label claim substantiation and for confirming the quality and authenticity of Cordyceps raw materials. Results are reported as a percentage or in milligrams per gram or per serving.

A representative sample is accurately weighed and extracted using an appropriate aqueous solvent system (e.g., water or aqueous methanol) to ensure complete dissolution of cordycepin and related nucleosides. The extract is filtered and analyzed by reversed-phase HPLC on a C18 column with UV detection at 260 nm, the characteristic absorption maximum of the adenine nucleobase chromophore shared by cordycepin and adenosine. Quantification is performed against a multi-point external calibration curve prepared from a certified cordycepin reference standard. Where applicable, related nucleosides — including adenosine and cordycepic acid (D-mannitol) — may be monitored simultaneously to provide a broader nucleoside profile and confirm the characteristic Cordyceps composition. Quality control samples are run concurrently to confirm method accuracy, precision, and linearity throughout the analytical run.

Cordycepin's adenine nucleobase chromophore provides strong UV absorption at 260 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 cordycepin from adenosine and other co-occurring nucleosides based on differences in hydrophobicity, ensuring that potency results reflect cordycepin content specifically. This distinction is analytically critical, as cordycepin and adenosine differ by only a single hydroxyl group at the 3' position of the ribose sugar and cannot be distinguished by UV spectrophotometry alone. The method supports raw material qualification, label claim substantiation, and cGMP compliance under 21 CFR 111.

This test confirms the botanical identity of Cordyceps sinensis mushroom in raw materials and finished products using High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC). The characteristic nucleoside fingerprint — including adenosine and cordycepin — of the sample is compared against a certified Cordyceps sinensis reference standard to confirm species authenticity and detect substitution with Cordyceps militaris, mycelium-on-grain products, or unrelated fungal materials. Results are reported as confirmed identity or non-conforming.

A representative sample is extracted using methanol-water and applied alongside a certified Cordyceps sinensis reference standard onto an HPTLC silica gel plate. The plate is developed in a validated solvent system, examined under UV at 254 nm and 366 nm, and the fingerprint is compared visually and by densitometric scanning to the reference standard in terms of Rf values, band positions, and fluorescence profile.

Cordyceps is one of the most adulterated mushroom ingredients in the supplement market, with mycelium-on-grain products and Cordyceps militaris frequently substituted for true Cordyceps sinensis fruiting body. HPTLC identity testing provides a practical and defensible method for confirming species authenticity, supporting supplier qualification and cGMP compliance under 21 CFR 111.

This assay confirms the presence of corn (Zea mays) using DNA-based identification through PCR. It is used to verify botanical origin in raw ingredients, detect adulteration, and ensure accurate labeling for corn-derived or corn-free products.

DNA is extracted from the sample and amplified using corn-specific primers. PCR amplification confirms the presence of Zea mays DNA, with results determined through endpoint or real-time PCR. Positive and negative controls are used to ensure assay validity.

Results are reported as Detected / Not Detected. This method is suitable for confirming the botanical identity of corn in complex matrices, extracts, or raw material powders.

This test quantifies corosolic acid, the primary bioactive triterpenoid found in banaba leaf (Lagerstroemia speciosa) extract, in dietary supplements and raw materials using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with UV detection (HPLC-UV). Corosolic acid is the key standardization marker for banaba leaf extract and has been studied for its role in glucose transport and blood sugar regulation. 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 to ensure complete recovery of corosolic acid from the botanical matrix. The extract is filtered, diluted to volume, and injected onto a reversed-phase C18 HPLC column. Detection is performed by UV at approximately 210 nm, reflecting the limited UV chromophore of this triterpenoid compound, and quantification is performed against a multi-point external calibration curve prepared from a certified corosolic acid reference standard. System suitability and QC samples are run concurrently to confirm method accuracy and reproducibility across the analytical run.

Corosolic acid is the defining potency marker for banaba leaf extract, and its accurate quantification is essential for verifying that raw materials and finished products meet their declared standardization levels. Detection at 210 nm requires careful mobile phase selection and baseline management to achieve adequate sensitivity and specificity for this low-UV-absorbing triterpenoid in complex botanical matrices, making method validation and QC oversight particularly important for reliable results.

This assay quantifies coumarin, a naturally occurring benzopyrone compound found at markedly higher levels in cassia cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia) than in Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum), using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Coumarin is subject to regulatory intake limits due to its hepatotoxic potential at elevated exposure, making accurate quantification important for cinnamon-containing foods, spice blends, and botanical supplements where cassia is a common, lower-cost cinnamon source. Results are reported in mg/kg or mg/serving.

A representative sample is extracted using methanol or aqueous-methanol with sonication to solubilize coumarin from the cinnamon or botanical matrix. The extract is filtered and analyzed by reversed-phase HPLC on a C18 column with UV or fluorescence detection at a wavelength selective for coumarin's characteristic chromophore. Quantification is performed against a multi-point calibration curve prepared from a certified coumarin reference standard, with duplicate injections and spike-recovery controls confirming accuracy and precision.

Cassia and Ceylon cinnamon are visually and often commercially indistinguishable once ground, yet differ substantially in coumarin content and associated health risk. HPLC provides the selectivity and sensitivity needed to quantify coumarin accurately against matrix background, supporting compliance with regulatory intake limits and cGMP requirements under 21 CFR 111.

This test confirms the botanical identity of cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Aiton) in raw materials, extracts, and finished products using High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC). The characteristic polyphenolic fingerprint of the sample — including anthocyanins, proanthocyanidins, and flavonols specific to Vaccinium macrocarpon — is compared against a certified cranberry reference standard to confirm species authenticity and detect substitution with other Vaccinium species, grape skin extracts, or synthetic colorants used to mimic cranberry's characteristic profile. Results are reported as confirmed identity or non-conforming.

A representative sample is extracted using aqueous methanol or acidified ethanol and applied alongside a certified Vaccinium macrocarpon reference standard onto an HPTLC silica gel plate. The plate is developed in a validated solvent system and examined under UV at 254 nm and 366 nm, and optionally derivatized with a suitable spray reagent such as Natural Products Reagent A (NP/PEG) to enhance visualization of the flavonoid and anthocyanin bands. The resulting fingerprint is compared visually and by densitometric scanning to the reference standard in terms of Rf values, band positions, and fluorescence profile.

Cranberry is a high-demand botanical ingredient that is frequently adulterated with lower-cost fruit extracts — including grape, elderberry, and bilberry — or diluted with non-specific polyphenol sources that lack the A-type proanthocyanidins characteristic of genuine Vaccinium macrocarpon. HPTLC identity testing based on the cranberry polyphenolic fingerprint provides a rapid and defensible species confirmation, supporting supplier qualification, consumer safety, and cGMP compliance under 21 CFR 111.

This assay quantifies a full panel of creatine-related compounds to confirm potency, and identity. It includes analysis of <strong>Creatine</strong>, <strong>Creatinine</strong>, and <strong>Dicyandiamide</strong> providing a comprehensive profile for raw materials and finished supplements.

A representative sample is accurately weighed and dissovled. Using HPLC analysis, creatine is quantified by comparing the sample response to a certified reference standard.

Results are expressed as a percentage or in mg per serving.

This assay quantifies creatine to confirm potency and identity.

A representative sample is accurately weighed and dissovled. Using HPLC analysis, creatine is quantified by comparing the sample response to a certified reference standard.

Results are expressed as a percentage or in mg per serving.

This assay measures crocin, a carotenoid glycoside, using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with UV-Visible detection (HPLC/UV-Vis). The analysis provides accurate quantification for quality control and standardization.

Samples are extracted and analyzed under validated HPLC conditions. Crocin is chromatographically separated and detected by UV-Vis at its characteristic absorbance. Quantitation is performed using certified reference standards, with calibration curves and replicate injections ensuring accuracy and reproducibility.

Testing verifies standardized potency, confirms label claims, and ensures batch-to-batch consistency.

This test quantifies crocins — the water-soluble carotenoid glycosides responsible for saffron's characteristic deep red color and primary bioactivity — in saffron (Crocus sativus) raw materials, standardized extracts, and dietary supplements using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with UV-Visible (HPLC/UV-Vis) detection. Crocins, principally trans-crocetin di-(β-D-gentiobiosyl) ester (crocin-1) and its related esters, are the key marker compounds used to standardize saffron extracts and are directly linked to the ingredient's documented effects on mood, cognitive function, and antioxidant capacity. Accurate quantification confirms extract potency, supports label claim substantiation, and helps detect adulteration with synthetic colorants or inferior saffron materials. Results are reported as a percentage or in milligrams per gram.

A representative sample is accurately weighed and extracted using aqueous methanol or water, with sonication to ensure complete dissolution of the polar crocin glycosides. The extract is filtered through a 0.2 µm membrane and analyzed by reversed-phase HPLC on a C18 column, with UV-Vis detection at approximately 440 nm — the characteristic absorption maximum of the crocin chromophore. Individual crocin esters (crocin-1 through crocin-4) are resolved chromatographically and quantified against a multi-point external calibration curve prepared from a certified crocin reference standard. Safranal and picrocrocin peaks may also be monitored concurrently to provide a comprehensive saffron quality profile. System suitability and quality control standards are run at regular intervals to confirm method accuracy and precision.

Saffron is the world's most expensive spice by weight and is one of the most heavily adulterated botanical ingredients in the supplement industry, with common adulterants including synthetic carotenoid dyes (e.g., Sudan red, tartrazine), safflower petals, and low-grade saffron stigmas mixed with styles. HPLC/UV-Vis quantification of individual crocin esters provides a highly specific and reproducible measure of saffron extract potency that cannot be replicated by simple UV absorbance measurements alone, enabling detection of adulteration with non-saffron colorants that may absorb at similar wavelengths. This test is aligned with ISO 3632 quality standards for saffron and supports both raw material qualification and finished product release under 21 CFR 111.

This test detects the presence or absence of Cronobacter species (formerly Enterobacter sakazakii) in dietary supplements, powdered food products, and raw materials using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Cronobacter is a foodborne pathogen capable of causing severe and potentially fatal infections — including meningitis and septicemia — particularly in neonates and immunocompromised individuals. PCR-based detection provides rapid, highly specific identification of Cronobacter DNA, enabling faster results than traditional culture-based methods. Results are reported as detected or not detected per the tested sample size, in accordance with applicable regulatory standards.

A representative sample is enriched in a non-selective broth at 37°C for a defined incubation period to resuscitate and amplify any viable Cronobacter cells present. Following enrichment, DNA is extracted from the broth using a validated nucleic acid extraction procedure. The extracted DNA is subjected to real-time PCR (qPCR) using primers and probes targeting Cronobacter-specific genomic sequences. Positive and negative controls, including an internal amplification control, are run concurrently with each batch to confirm assay performance and rule out PCR inhibition. Any presumptive positive result is confirmed by a secondary method per applicable regulatory guidance.

Cronobacter is a regulated pathogen in powdered infant formula under FDA 21 CFR Part 106 and is subject to zero-tolerance requirements in many food categories. Its ability to survive desiccation makes it a persistent risk in dry powder supplement and food matrices where standard hygiene controls may be insufficient. PCR-based detection offers significantly faster turnaround than traditional culture methods while maintaining high sensitivity and specificity, enabling timely release decisions and rapid response to potential contamination events.

This assay estimates crude fiber by measuring the indigestible residue remaining after sequential acid and alkali digestion of the food sample. It primarily captures components such as cellulose and lignin, though it underestimates total dietary fiber. It is used in legacy analyses and certain feed quality assessments to gauge plant residue content.

The sample is defatted (if necessary) and boiled in dilute acid to remove starches and soluble components, then treated with dilute alkali. The residue is filtered, dried, and weighed, and subsequently incinerated to determine ash content. The difference between the dry residue and ash weight provides the crude fiber content, with replicate testing and blanks ensuring method consistency.

Results are given as a percentage of the sample weight. Higher crude fiber values indicate a greater proportion of indigestible plant material. Although it does not capture all fiber, it provides a comparative metric for consistency across batches or ingredients.

This assay quantifies curcuminoid content in turmeric (Curcuma longa) extracts using HPLC. It measures four key bioactive compounds: Total Curcuminoids, Bisdemethoxycurcumin, Curcumin, and Demethoxycurcumin. This profile is essential for verifying potency, ensuring extract standardization (e.g., 95% curcuminoids), and detecting adulteration or degradation.

Samples are extracted using solvents optimized for curcuminoid recovery under light-protected conditions. The extract is analyzed by HPLC with detection at a specific wavelength for curcumin and its analogs (demethoxycurcumin and bisdemethoxycurcumin). Calibration with high-purity curcumin standards, along with internal standard correction and duplicate runs, ensures reliable quantification.

Results are provided in mg per g or per serving. The values are assessed against label claims and formulation targets. Measuring curcumin content confirms extract standardization and helps ensure therapeutic consistency across production batches.

This assay quantifies total curcuminoids in turmeric (Curcuma longa) extracts using HPLC. It measures the key bioactive compounds which are responsible for turmeric’s functional properties. This profile is essential for verifying standardized extracts (e.g., 95% curcuminoids) and ensuring potency in finished products.

Samples are extracted using methanol or other suitable organic solvents and analyzed by HPLC with UV detection (typically at ~425 nm). Quantification is performed using certified reference standards for each curcuminoid, with internal standard correction and duplicate injections for precision.

Results are reported in mg per g or % w/w for each compound and total curcuminoids. Values are compared to formulation targets and label claims to confirm potency, detect degradation, and identify possible adulteration.

This assay quantifies cyanide, a toxic compound that can occur naturally in certain plants or as a byproduct of processing. Monitoring cyanide ensures that concentrations remain within safe, regulated limits and that detoxification or purification steps are effective.

Samples are analyzed for total cyanide content using validated analytical techniques suitable for the product matrix. Quality control standards and calibration verification ensure accuracy and reproducibility.

Results are reported in mg/kg (solids) or µg/L (liquids). Testing ensures compliance with international safety limits, confirms raw material safety, and protects consumers from exposure to toxic levels of cyanide.

This assay quantifies dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a steroid hormone precursor to androgens and estrogens. Using HPLC, it verifies DHEA content in dietary supplements and raw materials to ensure label accuracy, potency, and stability across production batches.

Samples are extracted in organic solvents and analyzed by HPLC with UV detection at a compound-specific wavelength. Quantification is performed using certified DHEA 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 to declared label claims and formulation targets to confirm dosing consistency and detect underformulation or degradation.

This test determines Total Dietary Fiber (TDF) in foods, dietary supplement ingredients, and finished products using AOAC Official Method 2009.01, an enzymatic-gravimetric–liquid chromatographic method developed to align with the CODEX definition of dietary fiber. The method is designed to measure the sum of non-digestible carbohydrate polymers that meet the method’s validated scope, including insoluble dietary fiber, soluble high-molecular-weight dietary fiber, resistant starch, and soluble low-molecular-weight dietary-fiber fractions such as qualifying nondigestible oligosaccharides. The result is reported as total dietary fiber, typically in g/100 g, % w/w, g/serving, or g/100 g on an as-is or dry-weight basis as specified. This catalog entry provides a single Total Dietary Fiber result; it does not separately report insoluble dietary fiber, soluble high-molecular-weight dietary fiber, or low-molecular-weight soluble dietary fiber fractions.

A representative, homogenized sample is accurately weighed and subjected to controlled enzymatic digestion to remove digestible starch and protein while retaining nondigestible dietary-fiber components. The procedure uses the enzyme sequence and digestion conditions prescribed by AOAC 2009.01, including enzymatic treatment for starch hydrolysis and protein removal. The high-molecular-weight dietary-fiber fraction is recovered by ethanol precipitation and gravimetric isolation, with appropriate corrections for residual protein and ash. The soluble low-molecular-weight dietary-fiber fraction remaining in the filtrate is recovered and quantified by liquid chromatography in accordance with the method, using qualified carbohydrate standards and validated calculation procedures. The gravimetric and chromatographic components are combined to calculate Total Dietary Fiber. Reagent blanks, duplicate sample preparations, method controls, calibration or response-verification standards, and applicable certified reference materials are included to confirm digestion performance, recovery, precision, and calculation accuracy.

AOAC 2009.01 is particularly valuable for contemporary fiber-containing products because older gravimetric dietary-fiber methods may not fully capture resistant starch and lower-molecular-weight nondigestible oligosaccharides. By combining enzymatic digestion, gravimetric measurement, and liquid-chromatographic determination, the method provides a more inclusive Total Dietary Fiber value consistent with the CODEX-aligned analytical framework. This supports nutritional labeling, product formulation, supplier qualification, and verification of total-fiber claims, subject to the applicable jurisdiction’s labeling requirements. The total-only format is appropriate when a complete TDF value is required without separate soluble and insoluble fiber declarations.

This assay quantifies resistant dietary fiber using AOAC 2011.25, an official enzymatic-gravimetric method for total dietary fiber analysis. Resistant fiber resists digestion in the upper gastrointestinal tract and contributes to a product's total fiber content, an increasingly important label claim across foods and supplements. Results are reported as % w/w or grams per serving.

A representative sample undergoes sequential enzymatic digestion to simulate normal digestion, followed by isolation and quantification of the resistant fiber fraction per AOAC 2011.25. Results are calculated gravimetrically, with corrections for protein and ash content, and confirmed against reference materials and duplicate analyses.

AOAC 2011.25 is the recognized official method for total dietary fiber determination, ensuring results are standardized and defensible for nutrition labeling. This method supports accurate fiber claims and regulatory compliance.

This assay quantifies dietary fiber using AOAC 2001.03 with AOAC 991.43 enzymatic digestion. The method measures total dietary fiber and differentiates soluble and insoluble fractions, including resistant FOS that are not digested in the small intestine.

Samples undergo enzymatic digestion per AOAC 991.43 to simulate human digestion, followed by gravimetric and chromatographic determination according to AOAC 2001.03. Soluble and insoluble fiber fractions are isolated and quantified, then combined to calculate total dietary fiber. Quality controls and method blanks ensure accuracy and reproducibility.

Testing verifies nutrition facts labeling, supports fiber-related claims, and ensures compliance with FDA and international dietary fiber definitions.

This assay quantifies total dietary fiber—including both soluble and insoluble fractions—in food samples. It mimics human digestion by enzymatically removing starch and protein, leaving behind fiber fractions that are then separated and measured. This method provides a comprehensive fiber profile for nutritional labeling and product formulation.

The sample is treated sequentially with α‑amylase, protease, and amyloglucosidase to remove digestible components. Insoluble fiber is collected by filtration, while soluble fiber is precipitated with ethanol. Both fractions are washed, dried, and weighed, then corrected for residual protein and ash content. Calibration and duplicate tests ensure robustness.

Results are reported as grams of fiber per 100 g of product (or as a percentage), and may be divided into soluble and insoluble fractions. Consistent fiber values support nutritional claims, while variations may indicate changes in formulation or processing efficiency.

This assay quantifies diethylene glycol (DEG), a toxic solvent contaminant that may be present in raw materials such as glycerin, propylene glycol, or polyethylene glycol. Using LC-MS/MS, it detects trace levels of DEG in supplements, personal care products, and excipients to ensure safety and prevent regulatory violations.

Samples are extracted in aqueous or alcohol-based solvents and analyzed by LC-MS/MS using compound-specific mass transitions. Quantification is performed with certified DEG standards, internal standard correction, and duplicate injections to ensure precision and trace-level sensitivity.

Results are reported in ppm (mg/kg) or ppb. Values are assessed against international safety limits (e.g., USP, FDA, EMA) to confirm absence or compliant levels of DEG in finished products or raw materials.

This test quantifies dihydroberberine, a hydrogenated form of berberine with improved bioavailability, using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). It is applicable to raw botanical materials and finished dietary supplements such as capsules and powders. The method provides precise measurement down to 0.1% w/w, ensuring product consistency and label accuracy.

Samples are prepared by extracting 0.5 g of material with methanol using sonication for 30 minutes, followed by filtration. The extract is injected into an HPLC system equipped with a C18 column and UV detection at 345 nm. Separation of dihydroberberine from berberine and other alkaloids is achieved using a gradient mobile phase of water and acetonitrile with 0.1% formic acid. Quantification is performed against a certified dihydroberberine reference standard using a five-point calibration curve. Method precision is verified through duplicate injections and spike recovery tests at multiple concentration levels.

Testing confirms label claims, verifies ingredient purity, and ensures consistency across metabolic-support formulations.

This test quantifies dihydromyricetin (DHM), a bioactive flavonoid known for its antioxidant properties, in raw materials and finished botanical products such as powders and capsules. The assay employs High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) with UV detection to provide precise measurement of DHM content, reported in mg per gram of sample. Accurate DHM quantification supports quality control and standardization of botanical ingredients and supplements.

Samples are prepared by extracting 0.5 g of powdered material with 10 mL of 70% methanol using sonication for 30 minutes, followed by filtration. The extract is injected into an HPLC system equipped with a C18 reversed-phase column and UV detection set at 290 nm. Separation is achieved using a gradient elution of water and acetonitrile with 0.1% formic acid over 30 minutes. Quantification is performed using an external calibration curve constructed from certified DHM reference standards ranging from 1 to 100 µg/mL. Method precision and accuracy are verified through duplicate injections, quality control samples, and spike recovery tests.

Results are reported in mg/g (raw materials) or mg/serving (finished products). Testing verifies standardized potency, confirms product label claims, and ensures consistent quality across botanical and antioxidant formulations.

This assay quantifies D-mannose content in dietary supplements and functional beverages using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). D-mannose is a naturally occurring monosaccharide and C-2 epimer of D-glucose, found in small amounts in cranberries and other fruits, and is widely used in supplement form to support urinary tract health by inhibiting bacterial adhesion to the bladder wall; because it shares an identical molecular mass with glucose, galactose, and other hexose sugars, accurate quantification depends on chromatographic resolution rather than mass alone. Results are reported as mg/serving or % w/w.

Samples are weighed, dissolved in water, and diluted prior to injection, with filtration to remove insoluble matrix components. D-mannose is separated from co-eluting hexose sugars using a hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC) column and detected by tandem mass spectrometry monitoring characteristic precursor-to-product ion transitions in multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode. Quantification is performed against a calibration curve built from a certified D-mannose reference standard, with an isotopically labeled internal standard and duplicate injections used to correct for matrix effects and confirm method precision.

D-mannose is structurally indistinguishable by mass from glucose, galactose, and other hexose sugars commonly present in the same matrices, making simple sugar-content methods unreliable for specific quantification. HILIC separation coupled with MS/MS detection resolves D-mannose from these co-eluting isomers with the sensitivity and specificity needed to support label claims under 21 CFR 111 dietary supplement cGMP requirements.