Advanced Identity & Characterization

Unlock the full potential of your materials with our comprehensive testing services. We provide precise and reliable data to support your research, development, and quality control needs.

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What is it?

Overview

Identity & characterization testing ensures that natural health products (NHPs), pharmaceuticals, and related materials are accurately labeled, free of contaminants, and consistent in quality. These tests confirm the presence and properties of ingredients using validated methods and advanced analytical technologies.

Common Tests

Key Instruments Used

GC Instruments

A Gas Chromatography is used to separate and measure volatile compounds in a sample. It vaporizes the sample and moves it through a column using an inert gas. Each compound exits at a different time, allowing for identification and quantification. GC is commonly used in NHP testing for detecting impurities, residual solvents, and active ingredients.

Microscopes

This instrument is used to magnify and view small objects or details that are not visible to the naked eye. In lab testing, contaminants are identified, study surface features, or verify the structure of materials at a cellular or particle level. Common types include light microscopes for general observation and compound or digital microscopes for more detailed analysis.

UV-Vis Instruments

UV-Vis instruments measure how compounds absorb ultraviolet or visible light, helping confirm identity and concentration of target ingredients.  In identity and characterization testing, UV-Vis is commonly applied for assessing purity, verifying active ingredients, detecting adulteration, and evaluating color consistency in herbal extracts, pharmaceuticals, and nutraceuticals.

Applications Across Industries

Reference Methods

We adhere to established industry standards and reference methods, including ISO, Health Canada Standards, and other relevant guidelines. This ensures the reliability and comparability of our testing results. Our methods are continuously updated to reflect the latest advancements in materials testing.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Testing & Methodology

What instruments are used for identity and characterization testing?

We use GC-MS, stereomicroscopes, and UV-Vis instruments to identify compounds, verify botanical materials, and confirm product purity.

How is essential oil profiling performed?

We analyze essential oils using GC-FID or GC-MS to generate a chemical fingerprint that confirms authenticity and detects adulteration.

Is organoleptic (sensory) testing reliable?

Yes, it is. While it is a qualitative method, organoleptic testing by trained personnel is valuable for detecting inconsistencies in appearance, smell, texture, and taste, especially in herbal and food-based products.

Product & Sample Types

What types of products can be tested for identity and characterization?

We test raw botanical materials, finished capsules or tablets, essential oils, powdered extracts, and probiotic formulations.

Can I send a proprietary blend or custom formulation?

Absolutely. We can evaluate custom samples and compare them to known standards, or create a custom fingerprint for your formulation.

Are there any sample size requirements?

Yes. The sample size depends on the test type, but generally 5–10 grams or milliliters is sufficient. We’ll confirm the required amount when you request testing.

Compliance & Requirements

Are these tests mandatory for Health Canada compliance?

Yes, identity and characterization testing are required under both Health Canada NNHPD guidelines for ingredient verification and product safety.

What standards or references do you follow?

We follow validated methods from USP, EP, ISO, AOAC, and Health Canada’s Compendium of Monographs to ensure compliance and acceptance across markets.

Do I need a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) with identity data for my product?

Yes, a CoA with identity confirmation is essential for regulatory submission, quality assurance, and third-party distribution.