Omega-6 fatty acid dosage

Omega-6 fatty acids are a family of essential lipids, the main representative of which is linoleic acid. Present in large quantities in many vegetable oils (sunflower, corn, soybean), they play a central role in human and animal physiology, particularly in inflammatory processes, cell growth, and metabolic regulation.

Accurate omega-6 measurement is essential for characterizing raw materials and enriched formulations. It allows verification of the nutritional balance of products, particularly in relation to omega-3 fatty acids, with which they maintain a key balance for health.

Dosage objectives

The analysis of omega-6 fatty acids serves several purposes:

• to determine the total and specific concentration of omega-6 in a given matrix
• assess the omega-6/omega-3 ratio, an indicator of lipid balance,
• to validate the nutritional claims and marketing promises of finished products,
• to ensure the conformity of raw materials used in nutraceutical, food and veterinary formulations.

Analytical methods

The analysis is performed by gas chromatography-FID after esterification of the fatty acids, a reference method in quality control laboratories. GC-MS can be used to confirm the identity of the compounds and obtain lower detection limits, particularly in complex matrices.

These analytical approaches offer precise quantification of the different omega-6 fatty acids, including linoleic acid, gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and arachidonic acid (AA).

Affected matrices

Omega-6 analysis is suitable for a wide range of matrices, including:

• vegetable oils (sunflower, soybean, safflower, corn),
• plant extracts and powders rich in lipids,
• fortified food products (margarines, infant formulas, functional drinks),
• nutraceutical formulations in capsules, softgels or powders,
• Animal feed designed to optimize health and growth.

Industrial applications

The measurement of omega-6 fatty acids is particularly useful:

• in human nutrition, for the control of enriched formulations and processed products,
• In nutraceuticals, to validate the quality and concentration of omega-6 in supplements,
• in animal nutrition, for the optimization of diets and the improvement of productivity,
• in research and development, in order to compare lipid profiles or study the impact of transformation processes.

Links to other analyses in the catalogue

Omega-6 fatty acid analysis is often combined with:

• the measurement of omega-3 fatty acids, in order to calculate the omega-6/omega-3 nutritional ratio,
• the measurement of free fatty acids , an indicator of the quality and degree of hydrolysis of oils,
• the peroxide value assay and the TBARS , which measure lipid oxidation and product stability,
• the dosage of phytosterols , bioactive plant molecules often present in the same matrices.

This analytical network allows for a complete characterization of lipid profiles and better control of product quality.

YesWeLab Commitment

At YesWeLab , we work with a network of rigorously selected partner laboratories, most of which are certified and/or accredited (ISO 17025, COFRAC). We tailor the choice of laboratory to your specific needs, the matrix to be analyzed, and the required analytical methods.

Our scientific team is available to design customized analytical plans that meet your requirements for quality, traceability, and regulatory compliance. Since 2020, numerous manufacturers, distributors, and engineering firms have entrusted us with the management of their analyses, using our digital platform to simplify the submission and tracking of their samples.

To learn more or to submit a specific need, contact our team today.