Protocatechuic acid (vanilloid) dosage

Protocatechuic acid is a phenolic acid belonging to the vanilloid family, naturally present in many medicinal plants, fruits, seeds, and fermented products. It is a bioactive compound associated with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and cell-protective properties. As such, it is a closely monitored quality marker in ingredients intended for the nutraceutical, food, natural cosmetics, and animal nutrition sectors.

Protocatechuic acid analysis allows for the evaluation of its actual concentration in an extract or finished product, verification of the conformity of plant-based raw materials, standardization of batches, and control of the stability of polyphenol-rich formulations. This analysis is also used to detect potential adulteration or variations related to botanical origin, extraction processes, or manufacturing conditions.

Analytical techniques

The analysis is generally performed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with UV detection, fluorescence, or LC-MS. These techniques allow:

• precise quantification even in complex matrices
• excellent specificity compared to other phenolic acids
• low concentration detection
• monitoring the degradation or oxidation of the compound

Depending on the matrices, a specific preparation can be implemented: hydroalcoholic extraction, SPE purification, dilution or hydrolysis.

Commonly analyzed matrices include: plant powders, hydroalcoholic extracts, infusions, food supplements, capsules, natural cosmetics, functional foods or technical ingredients.

Industrial interest and applications

Protocatechuic acid assay is an essential element of quality control for the following sectors:

• Nutraceuticals: standardization of antioxidant plant extracts, validation of functional claims
• Agri-food: characterization of products rich in polyphenols (fruits, teas, spices, functional drinks)
• Natural cosmetics: control of plant-based active ingredients, evaluation of the stability of antioxidant formulas
• Animal nutrition: characterization of plants or functional extracts
• R&D: formulation studies, monitoring of extraction processes, yield optimization

It provides an accurate view of the natural antioxidant potential of an ingredient or formulation and is a robust indicator in comparative analyses of batches or suppliers.

Further analyses recommended

For a more complete characterization of the polyphenolic or aromatic profile, it is useful to combine this assay with:

• catechin dosage
• esculin dosage
• carvacrol dosage
• Volatile compound assay
• assay of semi-volatile organic compounds
• assay of other phenolic acids (ferulic acid, caffeic acid, vanillic acid)

These combined analyses provide a thorough understanding of the composition, overall quality of the extracts and their behavior in formulations.

YesWeLab Expertise

At YesWeLab , we work with a network of rigorously selected partner laboratories, certified and/or accredited according to ISO 17025 or COFRAC standards. Each analysis is directed to the laboratory with the most suitable technique, taking into account the matrix, the required sensitivity, and regulatory requirements.

Our scientific team will assist you in defining the ideal analytical strategy, optimizing your costs, ensuring the reliability of results and securing the entire support process, from the request to the delivery of results.

Since 2020, numerous manufacturers, formulators, distributors, and engineering firms have entrusted us with the management of their analyses. Our digital platform allows you to centralize your requests, track your samples, and easily retrieve your results.