Determination of phenolic acids: caffeic acid, ferulic acid, chlorogenic acid

Phenolic acids constitute a major subfamily of plant polyphenols. Among them, caffeic acid, ferulic acid, and chlorogenic acid are particularly studied due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as their role in protecting cells against oxidative stress. These compounds are widely present in many plants, foods, and plant-based beverages, including coffee, artichokes, echinacea, cereals, fruits, vegetables, and certain medicinal plants. Their precise measurement is a key challenge for the characterization, standardization, and nutritional and functional enhancement of plant products.

Analytical and industrial interest of the dosage

The measurement of phenolic acids serves several industrial and scientific purposes. First, it allows for the characterization of the antioxidant content of a plant-based raw material or extract. The levels of caffeic, ferulic, or chlorogenic acids are often used as indicators of quality and health potential.
In the human food and functional beverage sectors, this analysis enables the comparison of different botanical origins, processing methods, and extraction techniques. In nutraceuticals, measurement is essential for standardizing plant extracts , ensuring batch-to-batch consistency, and guaranteeing the accuracy of the content claimed for dietary supplements. In animal nutrition, phenolic acids can also be monitored for their antioxidant role and their contribution to the stability of formulations.

Biological role and valorization of phenolic acids

Caffeic acid is known for its antioxidant properties and its ability to neutralize free radicals. Ferulic acid plays a key role in protecting plant cell walls and is being studied for its protective effects on the cardiovascular and skin systems. Chlorogenic acid, very abundant in coffee and certain plants, is particularly valued for its involvement in glucose metabolism and its potential in wellness formulations. Measuring the levels of these compounds thus allows for the scientific evaluation of plant-based products and supports market differentiation strategies.

Principles and analytical methods used

The quantification of phenolic acids relies primarily on high-performance chromatographic techniques.
High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) , most often coupled with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD), allows for the efficient separation of different phenolic acids and their identification based on their characteristic UV spectra. This method is widely used in quality control and R&D for complex plant matrices.
Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) offers increased specificity and sensitivity. It is particularly recommended when concentrations are low, when several phenolic compounds coexist, or when the matrix is ​​highly complex (beverages, concentrated extracts, multi-ingredient formulations). LC-MS enables unambiguous identification and reliable quantification, even in the presence of interference.

Sector-specific applications

In human nutrition , phenolic acid analysis is used to characterize beverages (coffee, herbal teas, vegetable juices), processed foods, and ingredients rich in polyphenols. It contributes to controlling sensory and nutritional quality.
In nutraceuticals , this analysis is central to the standardization of extracts of green coffee, artichoke, echinacea, and other medicinal plants. It ensures the consistency of dietary supplements and allows for the documentation of their composition in technical or regulatory dossiers.
In animal nutrition , phenolic acids can be monitored for their contribution to the oxidative stability of feed and to animal health.
In the field of plants and plant extracts , analysis allows for the comparison of varieties, geographical origins, and extraction processes, and for optimizing the use of raw materials.

Matrices analyzed

Phenolic acid analysis can be performed on a wide variety of matrices: liquid or dry plant extracts, plant powders, beverages, juices, infusions, dietary supplements (capsules, tablets, powders), processed foods, or functional ingredients. Extraction and preparation protocols are tailored to each matrix to ensure reliable and reproducible quantification.

Quality of results and exploitation

The results are expressed as individual concentrations (mg/kg, mg/L) or as phenolic profiles. They can be directly used for quality control, R&D, standardization, or product marketing. The chromatographic methods used guarantee excellent accuracy and inter-lot comparability.

Added value YesWeLab

YesWeLab relies on a network of laboratories specializing in the analysis of polyphenols and phenolic compounds, equipped with high-performance HPLC and LC-MS systems. The majority of our partners are ISO 17025 and COFRAC certified or accredited, ensuring the reliability, traceability, and compliance of the analyses. Our scientific team assists you in selecting the compounds to be analyzed, choosing the most suitable analytical method, and interpreting the results in relation to your industrial objectives. Since 2020, manufacturers, formulators, and engineering firms have entrusted us with the management of their analyses via our digital platform for centralized, rigorous, and responsive monitoring.

Related analyses in the YesWeLab catalog

To complete the measurement of phenolic acids, the following analyses are frequently combined:

• Total polyphenol content
• HPLC Flavonoid Profile
• Catechin and flavanol assay
• Organic acid assay