Nicotine dosage

Nicotine is a naturally occurring alkaloid found primarily in tobacco ( Nicotiana tabacum ) , but it can also be detected in trace amounts in some related plants (such as nightshades: tomato, potato, eggplant). Due to its significant pharmacological activity , its measurement is of particular importance for quality control, safety, and regulatory compliance of products containing or intended to be nicotine-free.
Nicotine measurement thus allows us to:

• Check for the absence of contamination in plant extracts or “nicotine-free” products.
• Control the concentration in e-liquids , food supplements or plant protection products.
• Ensure compliance with European and international regulations governing the maximum permitted nicotine content.

Analytical methods used

Nicotine analysis relies on highly sensitive chromatographic and spectrometric methods:

• GC-MS (Gas Chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry) : ideal for the precise quantification of nicotine in volatile matrices such as e-liquids.
• HPLC (High-performance liquid chromatography) : suitable for plant extracts, teas or nutritional supplements.
• LC-MS/MS (Liquid Chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry) : reference method for ultra-specific detection and trace quantification, even in complex matrices.

These approaches guarantee reliable detection , reproducible quantification and complete traceability of results, in accordance with the requirements of ISO 17025 standards.
To learn more about these methods, also consult the page dedicated to high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or gas chromatography-MS .

Matrices involved

Nicotine dosage can be performed on a wide range of matrices, depending on the nature of the product and its purpose:

• Plant extracts or essential oils derived from plants related to tobacco.
• E-liquids and vaping products.
• Dietary supplements, infusions, teas or herbal teas.
• Tobacco derivatives and formulations based on natural or synthetic nicotine.

The analysis makes it possible to distinguish nicotine from other related alkaloids, thus ensuring a complete characterization of the sample's chemical profile.

Industrial and regulatory applications

Nicotine dosage is tailored to meet varying needs depending on the sector:

• Agri-food : verification of the absence of cross-contamination in plant extracts.
• Nutraceuticals : control of supplements intended for well-being or cognitive stimulation, to avoid the undeclared presence of nicotine.
• Tobacco and e-liquid industry : monitoring of formulations, compliance of dosages and traceability of finished products.
• Scientific research : study of metabolites, derivatives of nicotine or its role in plants.

The analysis results help to ensure consumer safety and transparency , in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 for cosmetic products and Regulation (EU) 2017/776 for tobacco products and e-liquids.

To complete this analysis, it is recommended to combine nicotine measurement with complementary tests such as caffeine measurement for stimulant products, or theobromine and theophylline measurement for the complete characterization of xanthic alkaloids.

Interest in quality control and compliance

Controlling nicotine levels is crucial for regulatory and toxicological monitoring .
This analysis allows us to:

• Detect the accidental or intentional presence of nicotine.
• Assess compliance with applicable legal thresholds.
• Strengthen the safety of products placed on the market.

YesWeLab's partner laboratories have state-of-the-art equipment, enabling very low detection limits and ensuring reproducible analysis , even for low-concentration samples.

YesWeLab's expertise

YesWeLab provides access to a network of ISO 17025 and COFRAC accredited laboratories specializing in chromatographic and physicochemical analyses.
Each service is tailored to your specific needs: matrix type, detection limits, reference method, or regulatory requirements.
Our scientific team assists you in selecting the appropriate method , interpreting results , and validating compliance thresholds .

Thanks to its digital platform , YesWeLab simplifies the management of your analyses: quote request, online tracking and secure consultation of technical reports.

For any specific request, contact our team now to benefit from personalized support for your nicotine and other alkaloid analyses.