Vitamin Analysis in Food: Methods, Importance, and Laboratory Testing Services

I. Why Do We Need Vitamin Analysis in Food and Food Supplements?

As people become more health-conscious, the nutrition labeling accuracy has come under increased scrutiny from both consumers and regulators. Among many critical nutrients, the vitamins are of particular importance because of their role in human health and preventing nutrient deficiency. Therefore, Vitamin Analysis has become an important component of food testing and quality control. As a manufacturer, a supplement supplier, or a regulator, knowing the type and amount of vitamins in your products is crucial for transparency, consumer safety, and legal compliance.

II. What Is Vitamin Analysis?

Vitamin Analysis refers to the analytical testing of the type and concentration of vitamins in food products using standardized laboratory methods. Vitamin Analysis can help:

• Develop nutritional facts label
• Evaluate products and reformulate
• Stay compliant with regulations and food safety guidelines
• Monitor shelf life

There are different types of vitamins and they have different characteristics.

• Fat-soluble vitamins: A, D, E, K
• Water-soluble vitamins: B-complex group (B1, B2, B6, B12, etc.) and Vitamin C

Since each vitamin type has its own characteristic, each requires specific analytical methods to be quantified accurately and reliably.

III. What Are Some of the Most Common Methods Used for Vitamin Analysis?

1. High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)

HPLC is the most popular method for analysis of both fat- and water-soluble vitamins. The method is highly sensitive and can be used on a wide variety of food matrices, from milk to cereals.

• Most suitable for: Vitamin A, E, B-complex
• Advantages: Highly reproducible results, good separation, quantitative detection

2. Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)

LC-MS/MS offers higher sensitivity and selectivity, particularly for vitamins that are present at low levels or in complex food matrices. LC-MS/MS is increasingly used for fortified foods and dietary supplements.

• Most suitable for: Folate, B12, D2/D3, K1/K2
• Advantages: Higher selectivity, multi-analyte detection

3. Microbiological Assay, UV-Vis Spectrophotometry, Enzymatic Methods

Traditional methods are still being used for some vitamins, such as B12 and biotin. The microorganism response is measured or the reaction involving the enzyme is followed in these methods.

💡 Tip: Not sure which vitamin testing method is right for your product? Contact our laboratory experts for consultation and method selection guidance.

IV. Where Can Vitamin Analysis Be Applied in the Food Industry?

1. Developing and Supporting Nutrition Facts Labeling

Knowing the type and amount of vitamins can help ensure that a product is in compliance with nutritional facts labeling. These are typically based on regulations and recommendations from the following organizations:

• U.S. FDA (21 CFR 101)
• European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)
• Codex Alimentarius

2. Supporting Product Development and Market Launch

Analysis of vitamins in food can help manufacturers confirm consistency in vitamin-fortified products such as:

• Infant formula and baby food
• Functional beverages and cereals
• Nutritional supplements

It can also help find signs of degradation or loss of vitamins during storage, improving product stability and formulation.

V. What Vitamin Testing Services Does Laboratory Provide?

Our laboratory provides Vitamin Analysis services to food manufacturers, research organizations, and regulators. We offer:

• Vitamin panels: A, C, D, E, K, and B-group
• State-of-the-art instruments: HPLC, LC-MS/MS, UV-Vis
• Customized solutions: Depending on product types and markets
• Turnaround time: Quick and reliable, with expedited services available
• Reporting format: ISO-compliant, including method references and LOD/LOQ values

All of our analyses are performed under ISO/IEC 17025-certified quality control procedures.

👉 Learn more about our Vitamin Testing Services

VI. Why Choose Us for Vitamin Analysis?

• Accuracy & Reliability: All methods have been validated and verified for target matrices
• Expert Team: Skilled chemists and regulatory specialists
• Comprehensive Reporting: Clear interpretation of results for technical and non-technical audiences
• Regulatory Insight: Our experts keep up-to-date with international standards and compliance trends

If you're developing a new product or carrying out R&D, our Vitamin Analysis services will ensure that your nutritional claims are scientifically sound and legally defensible.

VII. Accuracy of Vitamin Analysis Leads to Better Food Products

Vitamin Analysis is no longer optional in the highly competitive and regulated food market. From accurate nutrition facts to ensuring the consistency of fortified foods, a trusted laboratory partner makes all the difference.

Contact us today for Vitamin Testing and we'll give you a customized testing plan that meets your needs.