Vitamin B9 Assay – DFE (Dietary Folate Equivalents) Folate Test

The measurement of vitamin B9 in dietary folate equivalents (DFE) allows for the precise assessment of the amount of bioavailable folate in a product. This test takes into account the difference in absorption between naturally occurring folate found in foods and synthetic folic acid used in supplements or fortified foods. This analysis is essential for the food, nutraceutical, animal nutrition, plant, and cosmetics industries, particularly when validating nutritional claims or ensuring regulatory compliance.

Industrial implications of folate dosage and DFE calculation

Vitamin B9 plays a vital role in metabolism, cell growth, DNA synthesis, and numerous physiological functions, making it a highly monitored nutrient. In food products intended for human consumption, nutritional labeling mandates precise quantification of total folate. The DFE test provides a more realistic view of the actual bioavailability of folate in the body, a critical factor for fortified formulations, dietary supplements, and infant foods.

This analysis allows us to:
• determine the actual nutritional value of the folates present
• verify compliance with recommended daily intakes and authorized claims
• optimize the formulation of fortified products or supplements
• control the stability of folates in sensitive matrices
• anticipate interactions between natural and synthetic forms

Analytical methods: LC-MS/MS chromatography and regulatory DFE conversion

The assay relies on LC-MS/MS chromatographic analysis, allowing for precise quantification of the different forms of folate: folic acid, 5-MTHF, and naturally occurring oxidized or reduced folates. This approach offers high sensitivity and allows for the differentiation of metabolically active forms.

Once the values ​​are obtained, the DFE calculation is applied according to established regulatory formulas, incorporating the superior bioavailability of folic acid. This ensures consistent interpretation with labeling requirements and international nutritional recommendations.

The generated results provide:
• natural folate content
• added folic acid content
• conversion to DFE (Dietary Folate Equivalents)
• a complete overview of the product's nutritional value

Matrices analyzed and areas of application

This analysis covers a wide range of products: food supplements enriched with folate or folic acid, infant foods, fortified powders and drinks, plant products naturally rich in folate, nutraceutical formulations, animal feed, plant extracts or functional ingredients.

Applications include:
• formulation and optimization of vitamin B9 supplements
• validation of nutritional and health claims
• quality control of plant-based raw materials
• stability analysis for light- and heat-sensitive products
• regulatory compliance for European and international markets

YesWeLab Support

YesWeLab collaborates with a network of expert laboratories specializing in chromatographic, nutritional, and physicochemical analyses, selected for their technical rigor and compliance with ISO 17025 and COFRAC standards. We support you in choosing the right method, interpreting the DFE calculation, ensuring regulatory compliance, and integrating the results into your product strategy. Our digital platform allows you to easily manage your analyses, track your samples, and access your reports.

Since 2020, many nutraceutical brands, food companies and manufacturers of functional ingredients have trusted YesWeLab for the accurate measurement of folates and vitamin B9.

Other analyses from the YesWeLab catalogue

• Vitamin B1, B2, B6 and B12 levels
• Complete nutritional analysis
• Polyphenol and antioxidant levels