Food News

Since 1 July 2026, AGROLAB LUFA has updated its method for analysing choline and extended it to include carnitine.

In order to improve our performance in the long term and enhance the reliability of our turnaround times, AGROLAB LUFA has, since 1 July 2026, implemented a new method for analysing choline based on LC-MS/MS technology. This technological advancement is also accompanied by an expansion of our analytical services. From this date, we will be able to offer carnitine analysis in foodstuffs.

A modern and high-performance method

The new, more stable method is based on microwave digestion of the sample followed by LC-MS/MS analysis. Thorough validations have been carried out (recovery, linearity, precision and robustness) and have demonstrated excellent comparability with the results previously obtained using the microbiological method. Furthermore, this new method enables significantly lower limits of quantification (LOQs) to be achieved:

To ensure a smooth transition, the current microbiological method for choline analysis will continue to be offered in parallel during a transitional period. This will allow, where necessary, direct comparisons to be made on individual samples. This transition to LC-MS/MS technology represents a major step forward in our commitment to the continuous improvement of our vitamin analysis services. Further methodological optimisations are already under development.

YOUR PLUS: Thanks to this new LC-MS/MS method, we will be able to offer a turnaround time of 5 working days from receipt of samples, whilst guaranteeing a high standard of quality through an accredited method, ensuring reliable, traceable and reproducible results.

Author: Serge Campagne, AGROLAB France