Sugar content determination
Sugar analysis, also known as carbohydrate analysis, involves the identification and measurement of mono- and disaccharides in various types of samples.
At Cornerstone Analytical, we offer routine testing for a range of saccharides, including:
- Ribose
- Sucrose
- Galactose
- Glucose
- Arabinose
- Lactose
- Fructose
- Maltose
- Mannose
- Xylose
Sugars are simple, soluble carbohydrates commonly found in foods, beverages, and consumer products. They can be categorized based on the number of sugar molecules they contain. Monosaccharides consist of a single sugar molecule (e.g., fructose, glucose), while disaccharides consist of two sugar molecules (e.g., sucrose, lactose). Longer chains of sugars fall into categories like oligosaccharides or polysaccharides, depending on the number of sugar monomers present.
At Cornerstone Analytical Laboratories, we employ Ion Chromatography with Pulsed Amperometric Detection (IC-PAD) to identify and quantify sugar content in various samples. Our analysis primarily focuses on mono- and disaccharides, although oligosaccharides and polysaccharides can be analyzed for monosaccharide content after enzymatic digestion.
Our sugar analysis service is applicable to a wide range of sample types, including:
- Foods
- Pharmaceuticals
- Dietary Supplements
- Natural Products
- Bodily Fluids (saliva, plasma, urine, etc.)
- Consumer Products
- Water and Wastewater
Our method encompasses the following key aspects:
Sample Preparation:
As sugars are water-soluble, preparation typically involves dissolving the sample or extracting it into the mobile phase for analysis. Most samples undergo filtration to remove any particulate matter.
Calibration:
We calibrate the IC-PAD instrument using standard-grade sugar solutions.
Analysis:
Sample analysis is performed on the calibrated IC-PAD instrument using a series of sugar standards. Quality control checks are essential to ensure valid results.
,Calculations:
Sugar concentration in the sample is calculated based on the mass of the sample analyzed, typically reported as weight/weight basis (e.g., ppm or ppb). Results below the method's limit of quantitation are reported as '<10 ppm.'
Reporting:
Results are reported based on the mass of the sample used for analysis. If a sample fails to dissolve during preparation, the results are reported as 'extracted.'
The limit of detection and quantitation depends on the sample mass and instrument capabilities. Adjusting the sample size can lower the limit of quantitation. Contact us for specific information on the LOD/LOQ achievable for your sample.
The limit of detection and quantitation depends on the sample mass and instrument capabilities. Adjusting the sample size can lower the limit of quantitation. Contact us for specific information on the LOD/LOQ achievable for your sample.