Anthocyanin assay

Anthocyanins are water-soluble natural pigments responsible for the red, purple, and blue hues in many plants, including red fruits, grapes, purple corn, and red cabbage. These compounds, belonging to the flavonoid family, are known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardiovascular-protective effects. Their measurement allows for the evaluation of the quality, stability, and efficacy of plant extracts used in the food, nutraceutical, cosmetic, and phytotherapeutic industries.

Anthocyanin testing is recommended for:

• Control the concentration of natural pigments in raw materials
• Compare harvest batches or suppliers
• Check the compliance of antioxidant-enriched products
• Optimize the colorimetric stability of formulations
• Meeting nutritional or marketing labeling requirements

Available analytical methods

Depending on the required accuracy and the type of matrix, several analytical approaches can be used:

• Differential pH spectrophotometry : a rapid method for estimating total anthocyanin content based on absorbance at two different pH levels. Suitable for overall quality control.
• HPLC-DAD : individual separation of major anthocyanins (cyanidin, delphinidin, malvidin, etc.) with UV-visible detection at 520 nm.
• LC-MS/MS : cutting-edge technique for the identification and specific quantification of anthocyanins in complex matrices or at low concentrations.

Frequently analyzed matrices

• Standardized plant extracts
• Red fruit juice (blueberry, blackcurrant, pomegranate, cherry)
• Dietary supplements (capsules, powders, tablets)
• Raw materials for functional beverages
• Freeze-dried powders, concentrated natural ingredients

Industrial applications

• Formulation of antioxidant products
• Development of natural colorings for the food industry
• Verification of pigment stability in R&D
• Standardization of plant extracts for nutraceutical ranges
• Monitoring bioavailability in efficacy studies

Why choose YesWeLab for your anthocyanin analyses?

YesWeLab connects you to a network of accredited laboratories specializing in the analysis of plant pigments and phytochemicals. We help you select the method best suited to your objectives, whether for quality control, regulatory validation, or research and development. Our partners are experts in the latest technologies (HPLC, LC-MS/MS, spectrophotometry) to guarantee reliable, reproducible, and standards-compliant results.

Recommended analyses

To further your analytical approach, you can also consult:

• Cyanidin assay : for targeted measurement of one of the most common anthocyanins
• Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside assay : major anthocyanin in red berries
• Total polyphenol measurement : complementary to the overall antioxidant assessment

Tailored support

Since 2020, YesWeLab has simplified access to laboratory analysis for manufacturers, formulators, and distributors. Our platform allows you to submit your samples online and benefit from personalized support from our scientific experts. Contact us for a quote or to discuss your analytical projects.