Analytical vs. Database Food Testing: Choosing the Right Approach

Determining the nutritional information for your food product's label requires careful consideration. Two primary methods exist: analytical testing and database testing. This post clarifies the differences, advantages, and disadvantages of each, helping you choose the best approach for your specific needs and product.

Analytical and Database Testing: Shared Goals, Different Methods

Analytical and Database Testing: Shared Goals, Different Methods

Both analytical and database testing are FDA-approved methods for generating:

• Nutrition Facts Panels
• Ingredient Statements
• Allergen Declarations
• Nutrient Values Per Serving

However, the methods differ significantly in their approach, data accuracy, and overall cost.

Analytical Testing: Accuracy and Precision

Analytical testing involves laboratory analysis of your actual food product. This direct measurement provides the most accurate nutritional data. It accounts for:

• Ingredient Variability: Natural variations in nutrient content among ingredients.
• Processing Effects: Changes in nutrient levels due to processing (e.g., vitamin degradation, sugar transformation).
• Specific Product Composition: The unique combination of ingredients in your product.

While more expensive and time-consuming than database testing, analytical testing is the gold standard for accuracy and is the method used by the FDA to verify compliance.

Database Testing: Speed and Affordability

Database testing utilizes pre-existing databases of nutrient values for individual ingredients. This method is faster and more affordable than analytical testing, making it a suitable option for initial formulation stages or products with well-characterized ingredients. However, it relies on the accuracy of the database and may not account for all the factors influencing nutrient content in your final product. Medallion Labs does not offer database testing services.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Which type of testing is required—analytical or database testing?

A: It’s up to you and the level of risk you’ll want to assume. Analytical testing is the most accurate way to label a product. It is also how the FDA would verify that your product is within the nutrients listed on the label. Database testing can be conducted faster and is more affordable.

Q: Which method is required?

A: The choice depends on your risk tolerance. Analytical testing offers the highest accuracy and is required for FDA verification. Database testing is faster and cheaper but less precise.

Q: Why choose analytical testing over the more affordable database testing?

A: Analytical testing provides the most accurate and reliable data, accounting for variables not captured in databases. This ensures your label accurately reflects your product's nutritional content. Discrepancies can arise, especially with complex products or multiple fiber sources.

Q: Does Medallion Labs require a complete ingredient list or recipe?

A: For analytical testing, we don't require a full recipe but appreciate any estimates you can provide. Our analysis quantifies nutrients directly from your sample.

Q: Do I need to retest after a single ingredient change?

A: Yes, changing even one ingredient alters your product's mass balance and nutrient profile. Retesting ensures label accuracy.

Q: Can I use basic calculations for simple products?

A: The FDA uses analytical testing for verification. While calculations might suffice for simple products, analytical testing provides the most reliable data and minimizes risk.

Q: Can I use a database during formulation?

A: Yes, databases are useful during formulation, but analytical testing is crucial for final label accuracy.

Q: Can you reverse engineer my product's recipe?

A: No, we cannot determine a recipe from a sample alone. We measure specific nutrients you request.

Choosing the Right Method:

The optimal approach depends on your budget, timeline, and product complexity. Analytical testing is best for final label accuracy and FDA compliance, while database testing is suitable for early formulation stages.

Medallion Labs: Your Partner in Nutritional Label Testing

Medallion Labs provides analytical testing services ensuring accurate and reliable results. Contact us today at 1-800-245-5615 to learn more about our services and how we can help you meet your nutritional labeling needs.