Phycocyanin assay

The phycocyanin assay allows us to quantify this natural pigment with antioxidant properties, extracted from spirulina and other cyanobacteria.

This analysis is crucial for:

• Controlling the quality of spirulina powders or extracts
• Check the active ingredient content in food supplements
• Evaluate the stability of colored formulations
• To meet regulatory or marketing requirements (antioxidant claims)

It is part of a quality approach for manufacturers of nutraceutical, cosmetic, or food products claiming a guaranteed phycocyanin content.

Methodology

Phycocyanin is analyzed using different techniques depending on the required precision and the matrix:

• Spectrophotometry : measurement at 620 nm for a rapid estimation
• High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) : more specific analysis, ideal for complex extracts
• LC-MS (HPLC-mass spectrometry coupling): for trace analyses or in the presence of interfering substances

The method chosen will depend on the type of product to be analyzed (raw powder, purified extract, capsule, drink, cosmetic…).

Frequently analyzed matrices

• Spirulina powders
• Liquid or concentrated extracts
• Capsules, tablets, sachets of food supplements
• Functional drinks, smoothies
• Seaweed-based cosmetic products

Industrial applications

• Nutraceuticals : Justification for the intake of natural antioxidants
• Sports nutrition : formulation of boosters or detoxifiers
• Natural cosmetics : gentle coloring and antioxidant action
• Food industry : natural blue-green coloring, an alternative to synthetic colorings

Why choose YesWeLab?

 Our platform gives you access to laboratories specializing in the analysis of algal pigments, equipped with state-of-the-art equipment (HPLC, LC-MS, UV-Vis) and compliant with ISO 17025 standards. YesWeLab helps you select the method best suited to your matrices and objectives, with fast and confidential sample processing.

See also:

• Chlorophyll dosage
• Total carotenoid dosage
• High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)