March 2023

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance: The Power of Non-Targeted vs. Targeted Testing

Targeted and non-targeted testing are two different approaches used in the analysis of the growing health supplements and nutraceutical industries. The choice of testing methodology can depend on the certainty (or lack) of the ingredients and their sources.

Targeted testing for ingredients is a method of testing that is used to identify and quantify specific ingredients in a sample. This approach involves focusing on compounds or classes of compounds that are of interest and using analytical techniques to detect and measure their presence. Non-targeted testing, on the other hand, involves analyzing the chemical profile of a sample without prior knowledge or confirmation of what might be present.

Targeted testing validates ingredients that we assume are in a product or formula (pre-defined targets). But what about ingredients we don’t know about? The health supplements market is growing rapidly and often requiring businesses to find alternative sources of supply. In an industry where the regulations are inadequately enforced, unscrupulous manufacturers can bring to market many products that are not what they say they are.

For testing requirements that meet current industry challenges, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectroscopy is a powerful non-targeted analytical technique that has become increasingly important in the fields of chemistry, biology, and medicine. Non-targeted testing using NMR can be used to identify and quantify everything in a product including the active compounds, as well as impurities and contaminants.

While targeted testing is useful for routine quality control and the identification of specific compounds, non-targeted testing has several benefits that make it essential for analyzing complex natural products. Here is a summary of the benefits:

NMR analysis can provide greater insights into product quality at a time when the industry needs it. Want to learn more? Visit Our Science page.

The Growing Popularity of Mushroom Products and the Importance of Testing Protocols

Mushrooms are a trending ingredient in the health and wellness market. They are gaining in popularity due to a wide range of potential health benefits: these fungi possess possible anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, brain, heart and health benefits, as well as immune and energy boosting properties.

Consumers are increasingly seeking out mushrooms as a daily supplement. While mushrooms have been used by our ancestors for millennia to treat all sorts of diseases, today’s health- conscious consumer looks for a convenient diet supplement.  Mushroom products are available in various forms, including powders, capsules, and extracts. Several mushroom varieties can be found in wellness products including Reishi (Ganoderma), Hericium (Lion’s Mane), Shiitake, Cordyceps, and Turkey Tail.

As with all supplements, consumers purchase products with the expectation of a health benefit, and assurance that the ingredients stated on the package match the ingredients in the product. Companies with transparent quality assurance practices employ testing protocols to provide this.

One of the biggest problems regarding testing for mushroom products is the accurate identification of the species of mushroom. There are many different species of mushrooms and even experts can have difficulty distinguishing between different species of mushrooms and it’s not limited to visual identification.

Another challenge in testing for mushroom products is the variability in the levels of active compounds, such as polysaccharides, terpenoids, and triterpenoids, that can be present in different samples of the same species of mushroom. This can make it difficult to establish consistent quality control standards for mushroom products and to accurately measure the potency of medicinal or nutritional compounds in these products.

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) is an accurate and reliable testing method for mushrooms.

NMR is a non-targeted and inherently quantitative analytical technique that is commonly used in chemistry and biology to determine the chemical composition of a sample.

NMR can identify the presence and concentration of specific molecules in a sample, providing detailed information on the product's composition. NMR works by placing a sample in a strong magnetic field, which causes the nuclei of the atoms in the sample to align. A pulse of radiofrequency energy is then applied to the sample, causing the nuclei to resonate and emit a signal that can be detected and analyzed. This signal provides information about the sample's chemical composition, allowing spectroscopists to identify the presence of specific molecules and the concentration of each component.

 It is also a powerful testing method for a few reasons:

NMR Testing: An Essential Tool in Research and Development Protocols

Healthy brands and businesses are frequently refining the ingredients and components in their products. A company’s research and development (R&D) team may propose new or enhanced ingredients to a product for several reasons: 

Often products are made up of numerous ingredients sourced from multiple suppliers. This can make it challenging to ensure that each ingredient is of the highest quality and free from adulterants. In the worst of cases, a new, untested ingredient in a product can cause adulteration. If discovered, a recall can occur. Recalls can be major setbacks for any business: they require immediate action and communication may result in an on-going impact to a brand’s reputation.  

For valuable brands, new ingredient testing should be part of all research and development protocols when any product formulation is revised. By investing in this important stage of R&D, brands can ensure the authenticity of all ingredients and formulations and identify the optimal composition of raw ingredients and finished products.  

 In this context, NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) is a valuable tool for R&D.  NMR is a non-targeted analytical technique that uses a magnetic field and radiofrequency radiation to examine the molecular structure and composition of a sample.  It can provide a great deal of information such as:  

It is also a powerful testing method for a few reasons:

3 Types of Elderberry Adulteration and How to Detect Them 

Elderberry has gained significant attention recently due to its immune-boosting health benefits. This powerful plant, belonging to the genus Sambucus and native to Europe, has been the subject of numerous scientific studies that have found it to be effective in reducing the severity and duration of viral infections. 

While the demand for elderberry continues to grow, the problem of adulteration has become a significant concern for brand owners and ingredient suppliers alike. Adulteration refers to the addition of lower-quality or artificial ingredients to elderberry products. This can potentially harm consumers seeking the health benefits associated with elderberry. 

The high demand for elderberry has led to a supply shortage in some regions. This has resulted in using cheaper alternatives, such as black mulberry or black currant, to create elderberry products. 

The problem of adulteration not only affects the credibility of the suppliers but also poses a significant risk to consumers who may unknowingly consume products that contain harmful substances or lack the expected health benefits. This can also negatively impact the reputation of suppliers and brand owners who prioritize the quality and authenticity of their products. 

In this blog, we will delve deeper into the issue of elderberry adulteration, discussing the extent of the problem and its impact on the industry. We will discuss the current state of Elderberry adulteration and how brand owners and ingredient suppliers can ensure the authenticity of their products through Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR). So, if you want to learn more about this important issue, read on! 

The State of Elderberry Adulteration 

Elderberry adulteration is a widespread issue in the industry that has become increasingly concerning in recent years. The current state of adulteration involves the addition of lower-quality or artificial ingredients to elderberry products, such as juices, syrups, and extracts. 

There are several different forms of elderberry adulteration, including: 

Elderberry adulteration can significantly impact the reputation and revenue of brands prioritizing their products' quality and authenticity. When consumers discover that a brand has been selling adulterated elderberry products, their trust and confidence in the brand can be severely undermined. This decline in trust can significantly impact a brand's reputation. Consumers who no longer trust a brand may switch to competitors or stop purchasing elderberry products altogether, resulting in a decline in sales and revenue and a loss of market share. 

On the other hand, a brand known for producing high-quality and authentic elderberry products can earn a positive reputation and increase brand loyalty. To take it a step further, a brand that is taking the necessary steps to ensure the purity and authenticity of their elderberry products will be eligible for third-party certifications, providing them with a competitive advantage that can be marketed to consumers. 

The Role of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) in Detecting Elderberry Adulteration

There are several testing methods currently used to detect adulteration in elderberry products. However, each method has its limitations and may only be effective in detecting some types of adulteration. 

The following are the most commonly used testing methods for detecting elderberry adulteration: 

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is one of the most accurate and reliable methods for detecting adulteration in elderberry products. NMR can identify the presence and concentration of specific molecules in a sample, providing detailed information on the product's composition. 

NMR works by placing a sample in a strong magnetic field, which causes the nuclei of the atoms in the sample to align. A pulse of radiofrequency energy is then applied to the sample, causing the nuclei to resonate and emit a signal that can be detected and analyzed. This signal provides information about the sample's chemical composition, allowing spectroscopists to identify the presence of specific molecules and the concentration of each component. 

One of the main advantages of NMR is its ability to identify a wide range of molecules and compounds, including complex mixtures. This makes it a highly effective method for detecting the addition of cheaper substitutes or other adulterants and the dilution of elderberry extracts. In addition, NMR can be used to verify the authenticity of elderberry extracts by identifying specific markers unique to elderberry. 

NMR is the best option for detecting adulteration in elderberry products due to its accuracy, reliability, and ability to detect a wide range of molecules and compounds. Its ability to provide detailed information on the composition of a sample makes it an essential tool for brand owners and ingredient suppliers who prioritize the quality and authenticity of their products.