Butyric acid assay

Butyric acid (or butanoic acid, CAS 107-92-6) is a short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) naturally produced in the human colon by the fermentation of dietary fiber by the gut microbiota. It is also found in many fermented food products, including aged cheeses, butter, fermented plant-based raw materials, as well as in nutritional supplements and probiotic formulations.

Thanks to its anti-inflammatory, energizing (for colonic epithelial cells) and immunomodulatory properties, butyric acid is generating strong interest in the fields of functional nutrition, fermented dairy products, and clinical studies on the microbiota.

Why measure butyric acid?

Butyric acid measurement is a key marker for:

• Evaluate the quality and concentration of volatile fatty acids in fermented products
• Characterize the fermentation activity of raw materials or probiotic ingredients
• Supporting health claims related to gut microbiota and digestion
• Monitoring the evolution of fermentation during agri-food manufacturing processes
• Quantifying the butyrate content in extracts or nutritional supplements

This is also a useful parameter in clinical research or scientific studies on the effects of prebiotic and symbiotic fibers.

Available analytical methods

YesWeLab offers several analytical techniques to accurately quantify butyric acid, depending on the nature of the matrix and the expected detection level:

• GC-FID (gas chromatography with flame ionization detection): reference method for volatile fatty acids, preceded by a derivatization/esterification step to improve detection.
• GC-MS (gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry): ideal for complex matrices or low concentrations, with better sensitivity.
• HPLC (high-performance liquid chromatography): used in certain contexts where an alternative to GC is needed.

All methods can be adapted to your specific requirements, or validated according to quality standards (ISO, internal standards, customer specifications).

Matrices involved

Butyric acid can be measured in a wide range of matrices:

• Dairy products: mature cheeses, yogurts, fermented milks
• Butters and natural fats
• Fermented raw materials: yeasts, plants, fermentation substrates
• Dietary supplements: butyrate-based probiotics, capsules, powders
• Samples from clinical trials or experimental digestates

Our experts will advise you on the best method depending on your type of sample.

Sectors of activity concerned

This analysis is intended for manufacturers, formulators and laboratories in the following sectors:

• Human nutrition: organoleptic quality, fermentation, dairy products
• Functional nutrition and nutraceuticals: products targeting digestive health
• Research on the gut microbiota
• Fermented or symbiotic foods: kombucha, kefir, lacto-fermented vegetables, etc.
• Cosmetics or animal health, within the framework of integrative approaches to the microbiome

Why choose YesWeLab for your analyses?

At YesWeLab, we rely on a network of over 200 specialized partner laboratories, selected for their scientific rigor and accreditations (ISO 17025, COFRAC, GLP). Thanks to our secure digital platform, you benefit from:

• From a simplified order of analyses
• Transparent monitoring of deadlines and results
• Personalized scientific support
• Negotiated and competitive rates

Recommended related analyses

• Propionic acid assay
• Volatile fatty acid (VFA) profile

Need a butyric acid test?

Add the analysis to your quote or contact our scientific team. We will assist you in choosing the appropriate techniques and interpreting the results in relation to your nutritional, regulatory, or R&D objectives.