Achieving Accuracy: Key Strategies for Dietary Fiber Testing in Supplements
Dietary fiber testing in supplements is a highly complex process, requiring careful selection of testing methods customized to specific fiber sources. Many companies may struggle with choosing the right dietary fiber testing methodology, often defaulting to the most convenient or cost-effective option without realizing the implications. This can lead to inefficiencies, delays, and inaccurate results that affect product labeling and compliance.
The team of fiber experts at Eurofins can streamline the dietary fiber testing process and achieve more reliable results by engaging in pre-testing discussions with clients to determine the best testing method to use.
Choosing the proper dietary fiber testing method
Eurofins has several methods for dietary fiber testing, including tests for high molecular weight dietary fiber only, tests for both high and low molecular weight dietary fiber, soluble and insoluble breakdown, and some tests for individual fiber sources. Since fiber is composed of many different compounds, knowing the product’s fiber source or raw material helps in choosing the most appropriate testing approach.
There is no one method that is going to be perfect for all fiber testing. Understanding what fiber sources are present will help determine which testing method would be best.
Factors clients should consider when determining what fiber testing method should be used include:
- Do you have multiple sources of fiber to quantify or just one?
- Do you have low molecular weight soluble fiber present?
- Do you have a pure/raw material or finished product?
- Does your sample contain psyllium?
- Do you want to quantify specific fiber sources? Fiber source examples include beta-glucan, polydextrose, lignin, fructans, GOS, and HMOS.
The importance of pre-testing conversations
A key takeaway for clients is the value of having an upfront discussion before selecting a dietary fiber test method. Outlining the fiber source, desired test results, and product composition can lead to better method selection and more reliable data. Fiber assays can take days of intensive work to yield results, making it important to select the right test from the start to avoid unnecessary retesting.
Evolving trends in dietary fiber testing
A growing trend is the rise of prebiotics in consumer products. Ingredients such as inulin and fructooligosaccharides (FOS) are becoming more common in supplements and functional foods and beverages. These fibers require more complex methodologies, such as the McCleary assays, which involves lengthy processes to ensure accurate results.
Common dietary fiber testing challenges and how to avoid them
Common dietary fiber testing challenges include:
- Incorrect method selection: This can lead to low or inaccurate results.
- Lack of ingredient transparency: Clients sometimes fail to provide important information about their raw ingredients, making it challenging to match results with supplier claims.
- Unawareness of interfering substances: High sugar, fat, or protein content in products can interfere with fiber testing, necessitating additional extraction steps.
- Psyllium added to fiber blends: This can be problematic because it requires an extra step to separate the insoluble fiber from the soluble fiber.
To streamline the testing process, Eurofins recommends that clients:
- Clearly define their fiber source and the specific components they need tested.
- Provide raw ingredient details and supplier information when applicable.
- Share any pre-existing fiber content claims to help guide dilution and testing methods.
- Disclose any interfering substances, such as high sugar, protein, or fat content, that may require additional preparation steps.
Conclusion
Fiber testing is an evolving and complex field requiring careful consideration and method selection. At Eurofins Food Chemistry Testing Madison Inc, our goal is to provide accurate, reliable results through a combination of expertise, accredited methodologies, and client communication. By engaging with our team early in the testing process, clients can save time, gain a clearer understanding of their fiber content, and improve their product labeling.
Have questions on how to optimize fiber testing in your product? Contact us to discuss with one of our experts!
Additional Resources
Nutrient Analysis of Dietary Supplements
New Developments in Low Level Lactose Testing
