Determination of hydrocyanic acid (HCN)

Hydrogen cyanide (HCN) analysis quantifies this toxic compound, which is naturally present in plants rich in cyanogenic glycosides, such as bitter almonds, cassava, flax, and the kernels of stone fruits (apricot, peach, cherry). Under the influence of enzymes or during transformation, these glycosides—including amygdalin (sometimes called vitamin B17) —release hydrogen cyanide, hence the importance of rigorous analytical control.

HCN analysis is essential to ensure the safety of food, nutraceutical and phytotherapeutic products, and to ensure their compliance with regulatory limits for cyanogenic compounds.

Why measure the concentration of hydrocyanic acid?

At high concentrations, hydrogen cyanide presents a proven toxicological risk to consumers. HCN testing serves several purposes: verifying the safety of raw materials and finished products, controlling total and free cyanide levels, and demonstrating regulatory compliance of food and dietary supplements.

Methods and matrices analyzed

The analysis can be performed by titration, microdiffusion, GC-MS, or LC-MS, depending on the matrix and the desired limit of quantification. Commonly analyzed matrices include plant extracts, processed food products, kernel powders and kernels, as well as dietary supplements and phytotherapeutic preparations.

Why choose YesWeLab?

Since 2020, numerous manufacturers, distributors, and engineering firms have entrusted us with the management of their analyses via our digital platform. We collaborate with a rigorously selected network of laboratories, most of which are certified and/or accredited (ISO 17025, COFRAC). Each laboratory is chosen based on your specific needs, the matrices to be analyzed, and the required techniques.

If you have any specific requirements, please specify them in your request: our scientific team will do everything possible to respond accurately and promptly.

To submit a specific requirement or request a quote for hydrocyanic acid dosing, contact our team now.