Determination of organic acids (lactic acid, acetic acid, chlorides, nitrates, succinic acid, sulfate, phosphate, malic acid, oxalic acid, formic acid, quinic acid, citric acid, propionic acid, butyric acid) by ion chromatography – partner method

The analysis of organic acids is essential for the chemical characterization of plant, food, or fermented matrices. These compounds play a key role in the taste, stability, preservation, and nutritional quality of products. They can also reflect the physiological state of plants, the quality of a fermentation, or the composition of a plant extract.

Organic acids such as lactic, acetic, succinic, malic or citric acid are frequently measured to monitor biotechnological processes, control natural fermentations (yogurts, kombucha, kefir, beers, wines, etc.) or verify the conformity of plant raw materials.

This analysis is carried out by ion chromatography or high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) depending on the nature of the samples and the expected concentrations.

Objectives of the analysis

The analysis of organic acids allows us to:

• Identify and quantify weak acids and associated anions in complex matrices.
• Control the quality and stability of fermented products or natural extracts.
• Evaluate the chemical composition of an ingredient for quality control or R&D.
• Follow the fermentation and maturation processes (in beverages, sourdough starters, silage, etc.).
• Detect anomalies or microbial contamination due to excess volatile acids.

Analytical methods

Ion chromatography (IC)
Ion chromatography is the reference technique for the simultaneous determination of organic acids and mineral anions (chlorides, sulfates, phosphates, nitrates, etc.). It is based on separation by ion exchange, followed by conductimetric detection. This approach is suitable for aqueous or fermented matrices and allows for the precise measurement of carboxylic acid and salt content.

High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)
HPLC, equipped with UV or conductivity detectors, allows the separation and quantification of organic acids with lower polarity or those present in rich matrices (plant extracts, juices, natural cosmetics). This method is used when ion chromatography does not offer sufficient selectivity, particularly for compounds such as citric, quinic, or oxalic acid.

Organic acids measured

• Lactic acid (CAS 50-21-5)
• Acetic acid (CAS 64-19-7)
• Succinic acid (CAS 110-15-6)
• Malic acid
• Citric acid
• Oxalic acid
• Formic acid
• Propionic acid
• Butyric acid
• Quinic acid
• Chlorides, sulfates, phosphates, nitrates

Industrial applications

This analysis is relevant to many sectors:

• Human food: control of fermented products, fruit juices, wines, dairy products.
• Animal nutrition: monitoring of fermentations in silage and acidifying additives.
• Nutraceutical: standardization of plant extracts rich in organic acids.
• Natural cosmetics: stability control of formulas containing fermented or acidic extracts.
• Environment: analysis of organic acids in process water and industrial effluents.

Affected matrices

• Fermented products (yogurt, beer, kefir, kombucha, wine)
• Plant extracts and vegetable powders
• Foods enriched with organic acids
• Aqueous or hydroalcoholic solutions
• Water samples and effluents

Recommended Related Analyses

For a complete organic and mineral characterization profile, YesWeLab recommends:
Analysis of simple sugars and polyols (glucose, fructose, mannitol, sorbitol) – for monitoring fermentations and sugar products.
Analysis of total polyphenols and flavonoids – for evaluating antioxidant activity.
Analysis of heavy metals in organic matrices – to ensure the sanitary compliance of extracts and finished products.

Why choose YesWeLab?

YesWeLab relies on a network of partner laboratories specializing in chromatography and physicochemical analysis of complex matrices. These laboratories are ISO 17025 certified and accredited, guaranteeing the reliability, traceability, and regulatory compliance of the results obtained.

Our digital platform allows you to centralize your analytical requests, track the progress of your tests, and receive your results quickly. Our scientific team will assist you in selecting the method best suited to your matrix and your specific needs.