Beta-glucan dosage (mushroom, yeast)

Beta-glucans are complex polysaccharides composed of glucose chains linked by β-(1→3), β-(1→6), or β-(1→4) bonds, depending on the origin of the plant or fungal material. They are naturally present in the cell walls of fungi, yeasts, algae, cereals, and botanical extracts. Beta-glucans from fungi and yeasts are particularly sought after for their biological properties, notably their immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and prebiotic effects. Their quantification is therefore a major challenge for manufacturers of food supplements, functional ingredients, fortified feeds, and animal nutrition products. Accurate measurement ensures product compliance, validates active ingredient content, optimizes formulations, and meets regulatory and commercial requirements.

Principle and operation of the analysis method

Beta-glucan quantification can be performed using several analytical approaches depending on the matrix type, the required specificity, and the target molecular structure. The most common methods are:
Enzymatic methods : used for complex extracts, these methods rely on the specific hydrolysis of β-glycosidic bonds. The enzymatic activity releases glucose units, which are then quantified by a colorimetric or spectrophotometric detector. This method is effective for distinguishing certain types of beta-glucans and ensuring good selectivity.
HPLC or UPLC chromatography : recommended for dietary supplements, fungal powders, or purified products. HPLC allows for the separation of polysaccharide fractions and provides precise quantification, even in highly concentrated matrices.
Immunological methods such as ELISA : used when structural specificity is essential. ELISA allows for the targeting of beta-glucans from yeasts or fungi, even at low concentrations.
Ion exchange chromatography : suitable for charged polysaccharides or complex extracts for which molecular separation must be particularly fine.

Each approach is selected based on technical requirements, applicable standards, and the nature of the product being analyzed. Results may include the total beta-glucan content, the proportion of different structures (depending on the method), or confirmation of a level claimed on the label.

Scientific, regulatory and industrial interest

Quantifying beta-glucans from fungi or yeasts is of particular importance to manufacturers of nutraceuticals and functional ingredients. Beta-glucans are known to stimulate certain immune pathways, strengthen natural defenses, support inflammatory modulation, and enhance the immune response in both animals and humans. In the dietary supplement sector, quantification allows for the validation of nutritional claims, demonstrates the presence of active molecules, and ensures the compliance of marketed products. In animal nutrition, beta-glucans play a role in digestive health, immunity, and growth. Quantifying their levels ensures the consistency of formulations and the stability of batches. The plant processing and botanical extract sectors use it to characterize the quality of raw materials derived from medicinal fungi, inactivated yeasts, or fermentation extracts. Finally, R&D applications rely on the precise determination of content to correlate concentration and biological activity in in vitro and in vivo studies.

Supported matrices

The analysis can be performed on a variety of products: mushroom powders, standardized extracts, active or inactivated yeasts, nutritional additives, animal feed premixes, fermented products, plant-based raw materials, functional beverages, capsules, tablets, solutions, or suspensions. Matrices containing other polysaccharides, proteins, or fermentable compounds can also be analyzed using appropriate methods.

Added value YesWeLab

YesWeLab collaborates with a network of expert polysaccharide laboratories, selected for their advanced analytical skills in HPLC, ELISA, enzymatic analysis, and specialized chromatography. The majority of these laboratories are certified or accredited (ISO 17025, COFRAC). Depending on your matrix and your objective (quality control, validation of a claimed percentage, R&D formulation), our team identifies the most relevant method and the most suitable laboratory. Since 2020, we have been supporting manufacturers, formulators, and distributors in managing their analyses through our centralized digital platform, guaranteeing transparent, rigorous, and responsive monitoring. You can send us your technical requirements directly when requesting a quote.

Related analyses in the YesWeLab catalog

To complement the beta-glucan assay, several additional analyses can enhance the characterization of your extracts and supplements:

• Analysis of dietary fiber (soluble and insoluble)
• Analysis of protein and amino acid content
• Determination of reducing sugars and total sugars
• Analysis of the purity and chromatographic profile of plant extracts