Furocoumarin dosage in citrus fruits

Furocoumarins are natural compounds belonging to the coumarin family, found particularly in citrus fruits such as grapefruit, lime, and bergamot. Among them, bergamottin and xanthotoxin are of particular interest. These molecules are known for their interaction with certain liver enzymes, especially cytochrome P450, which is responsible for the phenomenon known as the "grapefruit effect." This effect can alter the metabolism of certain medications and therefore poses a food safety risk for products intended for human consumption. Their measurement is essential to guarantee the compliance and safety of foods, supplements, and citrus extracts.

Analytical methods for the determination of furocoumarins

Furocoumarin levels are measured using high-precision chromatographic techniques:

• HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography) : reference method for separating and quantifying furocoumarins in complex extracts.
• LC-MS and LC-MS/MS (Liquid Chromatography coupled with tandem Mass Spectrometry) : allow extremely sensitive and specific detection, suitable for low concentrations and complex matrices such as essential oils and beverages.

These approaches guarantee reliable quantification, in line with regulatory and scientific expectations. They are complementary to other analyses offered in our catalogue, such as the measurement of sesquiterpene coumarins or fraxin .

Industrial applications and safety issues

Furocoumarin testing is relevant to several sectors:

• Human food : quality control of citrus juices, drinks, aromatic extracts and essential oils.
• Nutraceuticals : standardization of food supplements based on citrus extracts, to ensure their safe regular consumption.
• Cosmetics : formulation of citrus-based products, particularly essential oils used in aromatherapy, which may present risks of photosensitization.
• Animal nutrition : control of citrus extracts used as additives in livestock feed.

This service is part of an approach to controlling bioactive plant compounds, similar to the measurement of other regulated compounds such as tyramine or tryptamine .

Matrices analyzed for furocoumarins

The assay can be applied to a wide range of matrices: citrus essential oils (bergamot, grapefruit, lime), concentrated aromatic extracts, plant powders derived from peels or zests, citrus juice-based beverages, and dietary supplements containing standardized extracts. Each type of matrix requires specific preparation to ensure the accuracy and reproducibility of the results.

Regulatory and traceability issues

Due to their potential to interact with certain medical treatments and their photosensitizing properties, furocoumarins are subject to increased monitoring. Their measurement helps to: guarantee consumer safety, comply with European regulations on active substances in food and cosmetics, ensure consistency and reproducibility between batches, and strengthen the traceability of citrus extracts and formulations. This safety approach aligns with other compliance analyses, such as the measurement of bisphenols in packaging or adjuvants in formulations.

YesWeLab's expertise in furocoumarin dosage

YesWeLab relies on a network of over 200 partner laboratories in France and Europe, selected for their scientific expertise and accreditations (ISO 17025, COFRAC, etc.). Our experts guide each client in choosing the method best suited to their matrices and objectives. Thanks to our digital platform, you can easily manage your analytical needs: request quotes online, track your samples in real time, and receive results quickly. Since 2020, numerous manufacturers, distributors, and engineering firms have entrusted us with their analyses to guarantee the safety and compliance of their products.

Take action

Are you developing citrus-based extracts, beverages, or dietary supplements? Entrust your samples to YesWeLab for precise and reliable furocoumarin analysis. Request a quote online now for your tests.