Report on the Analysis of Chondroitin in Supplements published on Government Chemist Website.

Chondroitin sulphate is a popular ingredient in dietary supplements. The analytical methods for independent checking of its amount in supplements are not straightforward. It would be desirable and may avoid disputes between suppliers, manufacturers or enforcement authorities to have robust validated methods available. Consumers also need to be assured that they are getting what they pay for.

The Government Chemist has published a report which describes the assessment of the suitability of methods and makes recommendations to address some problems that impinge upon accurate or reproducible analysis of Chondroitin in commercial formulations. While a comprehensive survey on Chondroitin supplements was not within the scope of the work, the general findings agree with previous studies. In particular that, in a few cases, the content of Chondroitin found by analysis is lower than the labelled value claimed by the manufacturer.

The news item may be obtained from the Government Chemist Website at the following address
http://www.governmentchemist.org.uk/NewsArticle.aspx?elementId=594.

More detailed information, and a link to the full paper in pdf format, may be obtained from the Government Chemist Website at the following address
http://www.governmentchemist.org.uk/Publication.aspx?elementId=593.