Assay of formononetin and biochanin A

Formononetin and biochanin A are two major isoflavones found in various legumes, notably red clover and soybeans. They belong to the phytoestrogen family, natural compounds whose chemical structure is similar to that of estrogens. These molecules are widely used in the nutraceutical field, particularly in dietary supplements designed to support women's health, especially during menopause.

Their dosage is essential to guarantee the quality, efficacy and regulatory compliance of plant extracts and nutraceutical formulations.

Importance of joint dosing

The combined analysis of formononetin and biochanin A provides a precise view of the isoflavone composition of an extract or finished product. These molecules play a key role in the desired biological activity, particularly through their effects on modulating estrogen receptors.

Reliable and reproducible dosing is essential for:

• standardize the extracts and control their composition
• to meet regulatory expectations and current recommendations
• to ensure safe use and prevent overdoses
• to enhance the market value of products through solid analytical data

Nutraceutical and phytotherapy manufacturers rely on these analyses to secure their formulations and strengthen consumer confidence.

Analytical methods for the determination of isoflavones

The assay of formononetin and biochanin A relies on high-precision chromatographic techniques, adapted to the analysis of phenolic compounds in complex matrices.

High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is the reference method for separating and quantifying these isoflavones. It offers excellent resolution and allows for the precise measurement of the concentration of each molecule, even at low levels.

Liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS) is a complementary alternative, allowing not only confirmation of molecular identity but also the detection of other isoflavones or flavonoids present in the samples. This method is particularly recommended when high sensitivity and specificity are required.

Affected matrices

The analysis of formononetin and biochanin A can be performed on different matrices:

• plant extracts from red clover or soy
• vegetable powders used as nutraceutical raw materials
• finished products such as capsules, tablets or powders of food supplements
• complex formulations containing several natural active ingredients

Dosing ensures the conformity of raw materials and verifies the stability of finished products throughout their life cycle.

Industrial applications

The results of this analysis are essential for manufacturers and distributors of food supplements. They allow them to demonstrate the standardization and quality of their products, while complying with regulations in force in different markets.

Quantifying isoflavones is also crucial in research and development studies, to compare the effectiveness of different plant sources and optimize formulations.

Additional analyses available

In addition to formononetin and biochanin A, YesWeLab offers the measurement of other isoflavones and flavonoids, providing a complete analytical profile. Related services include:

Genistein (isoflavone) assay,
daidzein (isoflavone) assay,
glycitin (isoflavone) assay,
rutin (flavonoid) assay,
quercetin (flavonoid) assay

These additional analyses help to strengthen the traceability, compliance and scientific valorization of plant-based products.

YesWeLab expertise

YesWeLab collaborates with a rigorously selected network of partner laboratories, the majority of which are ISO 17025 and COFRAC certified and accredited. Each analysis is entrusted to the most suitable laboratory based on the matrix, the analytical method, and the client's specific requirements.

Our digital platform has simplified the management of analytical needs for manufacturers since 2020. It allows for the centralization of requests, the tracking of samples, and the obtaining of reliable results in the shortest possible time.

The scientific team at YesWeLab supports each project by ensuring a high level of precision and responsiveness, to meet the needs of manufacturers, distributors and design offices.