Food Chemical and Nutritional Analysis

Elementar Rapid N Exceed Nitrogen / Protein Analyser

Summary: Burns samples and measures how much nitrogen is released to assess protein content

This device determines total crude protein content of food and ingredients by combusting the sample at high temperature and measuring the released nitrogen (Dumas method). The machine is semi-automated, running up to 60 samples per batch through an automated carousel. The device can analyse both powder foods and ingredients and liquids through tin encapsulation. 

VELP Scientifica SER158 Automated Solvent Extractor

Summary: Washes lipids out of food and ingredients to assess fat content

This device employs the Randall method to safely dissolve fat and other fat-soluble compounds in a food or ingredient matrix into a suitable solvent. The fat-solvent mixture is then collected and the solvent evaporated so that the extracted crude fat can be weighed. Using specific solvents can allow automated and reproducible solvent extractions of other compounds.

Ohaus MB120 Moisture Analyser

Summary: Uses a sensitive balance and heat source to monitor moisture loss in real time

This device is used to determine moisture content of food and ingredients, a critical quality that must be determined as part of the product development process. By monitoring drying and total moisture lost we can understand how strongly products hold water.

Novasina LabMaster-aw Neo Water Activity Meter

Summary: Measures the availability of water in products to predict quality

A water activity meter measures the availability of water in a substance, indicating how moisture affects microbial growth, chemical stability, and overall product quality in food and pharmaceuticals.

Spectrophotometric nutrient assays

We have facilities to perform high-throughput testing of a wide range of nutritional compounds in food including (but not limited to):

• Total phenolic content
• Total flavonoid content
• Total tannin content
• Total carbohydrate content by anthrone
• Antioxidant capacity
• Starch content and types
• Starch digestibility
• Phytate content

Sugar analysis

We have access to two highly versatile HPLCs, the Agilent 1260 and Dionex ICS-5000, that are currently equipped to perform sugar analysis. We are able to analyse monosaccharides released from acid hydrolysis and nutritional-relevant carbohydrates like fructans and oligosaccharides.

Other analyses

We work closely with the Adelaide Analytical laboratory at the Waite Campus for more sophisticated nutritional testing (e.g. lipid, vitamin, and antioxidant profiling) and aroma and flavour testing (through volatile analysis). Please contact Adelaide Analytical directly. Alternatively, we can facilitate discussions as part of a food research or product development program.