Introduction: The Importance of Accurate Testing for Mulberry Extract
For industrial buyers, mulberry extract is more than a botanical ingredient; it is a standardized raw material that must meet precise quality, consistency, and traceability standards. Key technical tools include HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography), UV spectrophotometry, and detailed Certificate of Analysis (COA) reports.
Accurate testing ensures batch-to-batch consistency, supports regulatory compliance, and reassures formulation teams that the extract behaves predictably in supplements, functional foods, and cosmetic applications. Understanding how mulberry extract is analyzed is critical for buyers sourcing industrial-grade, DNJ-standardized extracts.
HPLC vs UV Testing Methods
HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography)
HPLC is the gold standard for analyzing DNJ content and other marker compounds in mulberry leaf extract. Key benefits include:
- High accuracy: precisely quantifies active compounds
- Batch consistency validation: essential for B2B supply
- Reproducibility: standardized methodology recognized internationally
Typical HPLC workflow:
- Sample preparation (extraction, filtration)
- Column selection and mobile phase setup
- Reference standard calibration for DNJ or other markers
- Peak identification and quantitative calculation
HPLC is preferred for industrial-grade mulberry extract due to its precision and regulatory acceptability.
UV Spectrophotometry
UV is commonly used for polyphenol or total flavonoid content screening. While faster and cost-effective, it cannot reliably quantify DNJ and lacks the specificity required for high-purity extracts. UV is therefore complementary, not a substitute for HPLC, especially in B2B bulk sourcing.
Reference: PubMed – Phytochemical Analysis of Morus alba Leaves
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/xxxxxxx
Understanding COA (Certificate of Analysis)
The COA is the official document detailing analytical results for each batch of mulberry extract. Typical COA items include:
| Parameter | Unit | Method | Typical Spec |
|---|---|---|---|
| DNJ Content | % w/w | HPLC | 1–5% |
| Moisture | % | Loss on Drying | ≤5% |
| Ash | % | Gravimetric | ≤8% |
| Heavy Metals (Pb, Cd, Hg, As) | ppm | ICP-MS | Pb ≤2, Cd ≤1, Hg ≤0.5, As ≤1 |
| Microbial Limits | CFU/g | ISO 4833 / ISO 21528 | TPC ≤1000, Yeast & Mold ≤100 |
COA Interpretation for Buyers:
- Verify DNJ %: Ensures standardized active content
- Check moisture & ash: Impacts stability and solubility
- Heavy metal compliance: Meets international safety standards
- Microbial limits: Confirms hygienic processing and shelf life
Internal anchor link: Mulberry Extract Product Page
Batch-to-Batch Consistency
Consistency is a critical factor for industrial buyers. HPLC-validated DNJ content, coupled with standardized COA reporting, ensures:
- Reliable formulation outcomes
- Predictable stability in beverages, supplements, or cosmetics
- Clear documentation for regulatory compliance
Reputable suppliers maintain traceability from leaf harvest to final extract, supporting global procurement requirements.
Industrial Applications
- Dietary Supplements – Capsules, tablets, powdered blends
- Functional Foods & Beverages – Teas, nutrition powders, RTD drinks
- Cosmetics & Personal Care – Standardized botanical ingredient for skin and hair formulations
B2B buyers can source mulberry extract in bulk with verified DNJ and COA documentation for all applications.
Procurement Considerations
When evaluating mulberry extract suppliers, consider:
- Verified HPLC testing protocols
- Complete COA and SDS availability
- Batch traceability and GMP/ISO/HACCP certifications
- Export readiness and long-term supply stability
This ensures the supplier aligns with formulation, regulatory, and quality expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the difference between HPLC and UV testing?
A: HPLC is precise for DNJ quantification; UV measures polyphenols/flavonoids but is not specific for DNJ.
Q2: Why is DNJ content important?
A: DNJ serves as the primary quality marker for mulberry leaf extract and ensures batch consistency.
Q3: Can COA be requested before purchase?
A: Yes. Professional suppliers provide COA and SDS for each batch.
Q4: How often should batches be tested?
A: Each production batch should undergo HPLC testing to verify DNJ content and ensure consistency.
Q5: Is mulberry extract suitable for beverages?
A: Yes, water-soluble standardized extracts are suitable for functional drinks and powdered formulations.
Q6: Are heavy metals monitored in COA?
A: Yes, heavy metals such as Pb, Cd, Hg, and As are tested to meet international safety standards.
References & Authoritative Links
- PubMed – Phytochemical Analysis of Morus alba
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/xxxxxxx - NIH Office of Dietary Supplements
https://ods.od.nih.gov - FDA – Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA)
https://www.fda.gov/food/dietary-supplements - EFSA – Botanicals and Food Supplements
https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/topics/topic/botanicals - Industry Research – HPLC Standardization of Morus alba Leaf Extract
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/xxxxxx
About the Manufacturer
AIHerba® | Mulberry Extract Manufacturer
Shaanxi Zhonghong Investment Technology Co., Ltd. is a GMP-certified mulberry extract supplier providing:
- HPLC-verified, DNJ-standardized mulberry leaf extract
- COA, SDS, and full batch traceability
- Bulk supply and OEM/ODM services for supplements, functional foods, and cosmetics
Contact: 📧 sales@aiherba.com | info@aiherba.com | liaodaohai@gmail.com
Website: 🌐 aiherba.com