Dosage of pigments (lutein in feed for laying hens and eggs, astaxanthin in fish feed…)

Pigment analysis allows for the quantification of compounds responsible for natural coloration and antioxidant properties in animal feed, notably lutein for laying hen feed and astaxanthin for farmed fish. These pigments play a major role in the visual quality of products (yellowing of egg yolks, coloration of salmon), but also in animal health thanks to their antioxidant activity.

This analysis is essential to guarantee that the food complies with the specifications, to control the desired final color and to ensure reliable traceability of raw materials.

Industrial challenges of pigment dosage

In the poultry and aquaculture sectors, controlling pigment levels is a key factor in commercial and quality performance. Insufficient lutein can lead to under-yellowing of the egg yolk, while an improperly adjusted astaxanthin concentration can affect the coloration of salmon or other farmed fish. Beyond their visual impact, these pigments contribute to oxidative protection and proper tissue function, thus justifying their rigorous control.

The major challenges include:
• ensuring the reproducibility of the color of finished products
• verifying compliance with claims or production standards
• securing the formulation of fortified foods
• ensuring the traceability of plant or synthetic raw materials
• optimizing intake to avoid costly excesses or underdosing

Analytical methods: HPLC, LC-MS and UV-Vis

The analysis of pigments relies primarily on chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques allowing for precise and selective quantification.

HPLC is the reference method for quantifying lutein, astaxanthin, and other carotenoids, even in complex matrices such as pelleted foods, flours, or eggs. In some cases, LC-MS offers superior sensitivity and specificity, useful for distinguishing different isomers or derivatives. UV-Vis spectroscopy can complement the analysis for rapid concentration estimation or for intermediate quality control.

These approaches allow us to:
• measure individual and/or total carotenoids
• compare different batches of food or raw materials
• verify the stability of pigments during storage or thermal processes
• control formulations incorporating plant extracts or synthetic sources

Matrices analyzed and applications

This analysis applies to a wide range of matrices in animal nutrition: compound feeds for poultry, premixes, protein meals, fish feed, pigmented oils, plant extracts, egg yolks, fish flesh, experimental formulations for R&D.

It is used to:
• evaluate the pigmenting power of raw materials
• standardize feed intended for poultry or aquaculture production
• control the color of meat or egg yolk
• validate specific requirements for export or certifications
• analyze the stability of pigments during storage or transport

YesWeLab Support

YesWeLab collaborates with expert laboratories in chromatography, nutritional analysis and control of ingredients intended for animal feed.

Most of our partners are ISO 17025 and COFRAC certified or accredited, guaranteeing reliable results that comply with industry standards. Our scientific team supports you in selecting appropriate methods, defining control thresholds, and interpreting results to optimize your formulations and enhance your traceability.

Thanks to our digital platform, you can manage your analyses in just a few clicks, track your samples, and easily access your reports. Since 2020, many animal nutrition companies have entrusted us with their pigment testing to ensure production safety and improve product consistency.

Other analyses from the YesWeLab catalogue

• Total carotenoid analysis
• Vitamin A and beta-carotene levels
• Fatty acid and lipid analysis