Determination of fatty acid methyl esters (emag)

Fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) analysis is an essential method for characterizing the lipid profile of a product. This analysis involves converting the fatty acids present in a matrix into methyl esters before quantification. Esterification enhances the volatilization of the compounds, allowing their separation and analysis by gas chromatography-FID. This technique is crucial for establishing the precise fatty acid composition—saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated—and thus evaluating the quality, purity, or nutritional value of a sample.

Principle and operation of the method

The analysis of fatty acid-rich fatty acids (FAME) begins with a sample preparation step. Lipids extracted from a matrix (oil, powder, lipid extract, nutritional ingredient) undergo an esterification reaction, transforming free or bound fatty acids into methyl esters, compounds better suited to gas chromatography.
The separation and detection of FAME are then performed by GC-FID or gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). GC-FID allows for reliable and reproducible quantification, while GC-MS provides detailed structural identification, particularly useful for distinguishing fatty acid isomers.

Each peak on the chromatogram corresponds to a specific fatty acid, the quantity of which is calculated by comparison with reference standards. This approach guarantees a reliable and traceable measurement, essential for quality control and nutritional studies.

Technical specifications and analytical performance

The GC-FID method used for FAME analysis offers excellent sensitivity and robustness. It allows for the detection and quantification of trace fatty acids in various types of matrices.
Coupling with GC-MS enhances analytical power, particularly for the identification of atypical fatty acids or impurities of plant or animal origin. This complementary capability makes the method suitable for both routine analyses and advanced research projects.

Associated analyses such as glyceride composition , ester content , and antioxidant levels provide a comprehensive view of a product's lipid profile. These services are often combined to establish a global diagnosis of lipid quality and stability within a given matrix.

Applications and areas concerned

The analysis of fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) is widely used in several industrial sectors.
In the human food industry, it allows for the monitoring of the fatty acid composition of oils, margarines, dairy products, and omega-3 and omega-6 supplements. This data ensures the nutritional conformity and oxidative stability of finished products.
In animal nutrition, this analysis is essential for evaluating the lipid quality of raw materials and formulations intended for feeding livestock, fish, or companion animals.
In the nutraceutical sector, it allows for the characterization of extracts from algae, seeds, or fish and the optimization of formulations rich in essential fatty acids.
Finally, in the field of plants and vegetable oils, FAME analysis is used to study the lipid composition of oilseed oils or medicinal plant extracts, in conjunction with other complementary analyses such as vitamin or additive and solvent content analysis .

The advantages of the YesWeLab service

YesWeLab relies on a vast network of rigorously selected, certified and accredited partner laboratories (ISO 17025, COFRAC). Each request is directed to the most suitable laboratory based on the matrix, method and analytical requirements.

Thanks to its digital analysis management platform, YesWeLab simplifies ordering, sample submission, tracking, and results receipt. Since 2020, numerous manufacturers, distributors, and research firms have relied on YesWeLab for their lipid and fatty acid analysis needs.

For any specific need in the quantification of fatty acid methyl esters or for a complete lipid profile study, contact our scientific team now to obtain a personalized quote and advice tailored to your matrices and analytical objectives.