Agavins are a mixture of polysaccharides of various chain lengths, extracted from agave, which are gaining increasing popularity as prebiotic food supplements. Their global market is booming.
In this survey (open access) researchers tested 12 samples of “pure agave inulin” supplements from the Mexican retail market for exogenous sugars and polysaccharides. They used a panel of methods including HPTLC, FTIR, HPAEC-PAD, and a commercial enzymatic kit for fructan detection. Samples were compared to in-house references and authentic samples sourced directly from manufacturers.
Each test gives complementary information, and a single test is rarely definitive. The authors conclude that the majority of their 12 samples were adulterated in some manner, including in manners which are easier to characterise such as bulking with polydextrin (4 of the 12 samples).
With thanks to FAN member Mercedes G Lopez for highlighting this publication.
Photo by May Sermonia on Unsplash
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