Phytosterol dosage

Phytosterols , and stigmasterol. Their main benefit lies in their cholesterol-lowering effects: when consumed regularly, they help reduce intestinal cholesterol absorption and thus contribute to the prevention of cardiovascular disease.

In the nutraceutical and food industries, phytosterol analysis is essential for quality control of fortified products and ensuring compliance with health claims. This analysis allows for verification of the total phytosterol content or for targeting specific molecules.

Analytical methods

The measurement of phytosterols relies on reference chromatographic methods:

• Gas chromatography (GC-FID or GC-MS) : reference method for the quantitative and qualitative analysis of sterols, suitable for oils and complex extracts.
• HPLC (high-performance liquid chromatography) : an alternative for separation and quantification in various matrices.

These approaches guarantee high accuracy and allow for the identification of complete phytosterol profiles, even at low levels.

Matrices involved

Phytosterol analysis can be performed on various food and nutraceutical matrices:

• Vegetable oils and margarines enriched with phytosterols.
• Cereals and processed products claiming a health benefit related to cholesterol reduction.
• Fortified dairy products (yogurts, milk drinks).
• Dietary supplements in the form of capsules, powders or tablets.

Industrial applications

• Quality control: checking the phytosterol content in raw materials and finished products.
• Nutraceutical product development: formulating targeted supplements for cardiovascular health.
• Functional foods: checking the compliance of nutritional and health claims.
• Research and development: studying the stability of phytosterols in complex formulations.

Additional analyses

Phytosterol testing can be combined with other tests available in the YesWeLab catalogue to obtain a complete picture of nutritional and functional profiles:

• Isoflavone assay for phytoestrogen compounds.
• Theobromine dosage and caffeine dosage , other bioactive markers of plants.
• Fatty acid dosage , an essential complement for oils and margarines.

Regulations and quality issues

In Europe, phytosterols added to food are regulated by Regulation (EC) No 258/97 on novel foods and by Regulation (EU) No 432/2012 on health claims. Fortified products must contain at least 0.8 g of phytosterols per serving to claim a blood cholesterol-lowering effect.

Analytical control is therefore essential to ensure label compliance, avoid the risks of non-compliance and strengthen consumer confidence.

YesWeLab's expertise

YesWeLab collaborates with a network of ISO 17025 accredited laboratories rigorously selected for their expertise in the analysis of nutraceuticals and food products. Each sample is directed to the most appropriate methods based on its matrix and regulatory objectives.

Thanks to our digital platform, manufacturers benefit from simplified management of their analyses: online quote requests, sample tracking, and fast, secure delivery of results. Since 2020, numerous players in the food and nutraceutical sectors have trusted us with their analytical needs.