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

Dosage objectives

Omega-6 fatty acid analysis has several purposes:

• 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,
• validate nutritional claims and marketing promises of finished products,
• ensure the conformity of raw materials used in nutraceutical, food and veterinary formulations.

Analytical methods

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

These analytical approaches provide accurate quantification of 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 milks, functional drinks),
• nutraceutical formulations in capsules, capsules or powders,
• animal feed intended to optimize health and growth.

Industrial applications

The dosage of omega-6 fatty acids is particularly used:

• in human food, 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 catalog

Omega-6 fatty acid analysis is often combined with:

• the dosage of omega-3 fatty acids, in order to calculate the omega-6/omega-3 nutritional ratio,
• the dosage of free fatty acids , an indicator of the quality and degree of hydrolysis of oils,
• the peroxide index 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 complete characterization of lipid profiles and better control of product quality.

YesWeLab Commitment

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

Our scientific team is available to design customized analytical plans that meet your quality, traceability, and regulatory compliance requirements. Since 2020, numerous manufacturers, distributors, and design offices have trusted us to manage their analyses, using our digital platform to simplify the sending and tracking of their samples.

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