Alpha-amylase is a major digestive enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of starch into simple sugars. It plays a crucial role in the transformation of complex carbohydrates, both in biological (digestion) and technological (food manufacturing, fermentation, animal nutrition) processes.
The measurement of alpha-amylase activity is essential in several contexts:
- Food industry: control of enzymatic additives, breadmaking, brewing, malting;
- Animal nutrition: formulation of enriched feed for better digestibility;
- Food supplements: standardization of enzyme powders;
- Plant biotechnologies: selection of varieties or assessment of physiological stress.
Analysis methods
Alpha-amylase assay is based on quantitative enzymatic methods, adapted to the matrix and the required sensitivity:
- Spectrophotometry: colorimetric method by release of maltose/glucose from substrates (e.g.: starch or labeled dextrins);
- HPLC: separation of hydrolyzed sugars for precise quantification;
- ELISA: immunological assay, particularly useful for complex extracts or the detection of alpha-amylase of specific origin (fungal, bacterial, porcine, etc.).
Results are usually expressed in enzyme units (U/g or U/mL) or hydrolysis rate.
Analyzed matrices
Alpha-amylase activity can be measured in a wide variety of products:
- Enzyme supplements (capsules, powders, syrups) – evaluation of actual activity compared to labeling;
- Food raw materials (flours, plant extracts) – for bread, beer, fermented products;
- Processed products (functional foods, baby food) – guaranteed enzymatic performance;
- Plant or organism extracts – stability or stress assessment.
Industrial issues and quality
Alpha-amylase is used in many formulations to improve technological and nutritional characteristics. Its dosage is essential for:
- Ensure constant enzymatic efficiency;
- Comply with the activity standards imposed by regulations or quality labels;
- Control enzyme stability during storage or thermal processing;
- Evaluate the impact of treatments (heating, drying, granulation) on biological activity.
Strict dosage is also required for products exported to certain regulated markets (EU, USA, Asia).
Further analyses recommended
Several analyses can be associated with the alpha-amylase dosage for a complete view of the enzymatic activity or the quality of the formulations:
- Assay of bromelain activity – plant proteolytic enzyme;
- Lipase activity assay – lipid hydrolyzing enzyme;
- Lipoxygenase activity assay – seed oxidation marker;
- In vitro glycemic index assay – to assess the impact of enzymatic digestion on glucose release.
YesWeLab: on-demand enzyme expertise
At YesWeLab, we provide manufacturers and formulators with a turnkey solution for their enzymatic analyses. Thanks to a network of ISO 17025-accredited laboratories, we guarantee:
- Robust and validated methods (spectrophotometry, HPLC, ELISA, etc.);
- Customized support for your samples according to your matrices;
- Digital monitoring of your analyses via our secure platform.
Whether you are developing a new product or need to control existing production, we support you from start to finish to meet your requirements.
Need to measure alpha-amylase in your products?
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