Theobromine dosage

Theobromine is a molecule belonging to the methylxanthine family, structurally similar to caffeine. Naturally present in cocoa beans, tea, guarana, and certain medicinal plants, it is known for its mild stimulant effects, diuretic properties, and vasodilatory action.

Theobromine measurement is essential in several industrial contexts:

• In human nutrition, to control the content of active ingredients in cocoa or tea extracts used in functional drinks, food supplements or energy products.
• In nutraceuticals, to standardize extracts based on cocoa or guarana incorporated into health formulas.
• In animal nutrition, in order to assess the safety of formulations (theobromine being toxic to some species, particularly dogs).
• In the agri-food sector, to certify the composition of cocoa-based products, guarantee regulatory compliance or authenticate a material origin.

Proposed analytical methodologies

Theobromine is analyzed by liquid chromatography:

• HPLC-DAD (High Performance Liquid Chromatography – Diode Array Detection): standard method used for simple or concentrated matrices.
• LC-MS/MS (tandem mass spectrometry-coupled chromatography): recommended for complex matrices, or when very low detection thresholds are required.

We adapt the method according to your matrices and objectives:

• Finished products (chocolates, drinks, energy bars)
• Ingredients (cocoa solids, tea powder, guarana)
• Raw or processed plant materials
• Dietary supplements (capsules, tablets, soluble powders)
• Animal feed

A key dosage for quality, compliance and safety

The theobromine assay allows us to:

• Verify compliance with internal or regulatory specifications
• Ensuring the consistency of plant-based formulations
• Detecting cross-contamination (particularly in animal feed)
• Evaluate residual levels as part of quality control procedures

This analysis can also be cross-referenced with that of other methylxanthines, such as caffeine and theophylline, for a comprehensive view of the bioactive profile of the extracts.

Related analyses to explore

To further characterize your extracts or supplements, we recommend the following analyses:

• Caffeine dosage – For tea, coffee or guarana extracts
• Theanine dosage – Complementary relaxing amino acid, extracted from green tea
• Glabridine dosage – Licorice flavonoid with antioxidant effects

Entrust your analyses to YesWeLab

Since 2020, YesWeLab has been supporting companies in the nutrition, health, and food industries with their analytical needs. Thanks to our digital platform and our network of over 200 partner laboratories, we offer you a reliable, fast solution that complies with ISO 17025 / COFRAC standards.

• Laboratory selection based on matrix, method and your sector
• Analysis compliant with current standards
• Available and responsive scientific team
• Online sample tracking

Need a quote or advice?
Add this analysis to your request and specify your requirements (thresholds, matrices, standards to be met).
Our team will respond within 24 to 48 hours with a tailored proposal.