TBARS assay

The TBARS (Thiobarbituric Acid Reactive Substances) test is a commonly used method for assessing the level of lipid oxidation in biological, food, or formulated products. This test is based on the detection of substances reactive to thiobarbituric acid, primarily malondialdehyde (MDA), a recognized marker of lipid peroxidation.

Importance of the dosage

Measuring TBARS is essential for:

• Determining the freshness and shelf life of products rich in lipids.
• Monitor rancidity and the evolution of oxidative alterations.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of antioxidant treatments in food or technical formulations.
• Controlling lipid stability in the context of new product development.

Analytical Methodology

The TBARS test is performed by UV-Vis spectrophotometry, following a reaction between malondialdehyde (and other secondary aldehydes) and thiobarbituric acid (TBA), producing a colored complex measurable at 532 nm. Although relatively simple, this method is reliable for comparing different batches and monitoring product evolution over time.

Matrices analyzed

TBARS assays are applicable to many matrices:

• Meat products (fresh meat, deli meats, animal feed).
• Lipid extracts (animal fats, oils).
• Edible and technical oils.
• Products enriched with lipids or complex formulations.

Industrial applications

The TBARS test is particularly relevant in:

• Animal nutrition, to assess the quality of raw materials and formulations rich in fats.
• The agri-food sector, particularly in monitoring the stability of meat products and oils.
• Research and development, to measure the impact of antioxidants or storage conditions.
• Quality control, in order to guarantee the oxidative stability of the finished products.

Related analyses in the YesWeLab catalog

To complement the TBARS test, other lipid quality analyses can be performed:

• Peroxide value (measurement of primary peroxides).
• Acid value (free fatty acids, hydrolysis).
• Fatty acid profile by GC-FID.

YesWeLab Expertise

At YesWeLab, we collaborate with a network of rigorously selected laboratories, most of which are ISO 17025 certified and COFRAC accredited. Our role is to support you in choosing the methods best suited to your matrices and needs, while guaranteeing fast, reliable analyses that comply with current standards.