Dietary fiber analysis determines total, soluble, and insoluble fiber content in food products. Fiber is a key parameter for EU nutritional labeling and health claims under Regulation 1924/2006. Ovalab offers accredited dietary fiber testing using internationally recognized enzymatic-gravimetric methods.
Key Facts About Dietary Fiber Analysis
- Primary method: AOAC 991.43 — enzymatic-gravimetric method for total, soluble, and insoluble dietary fiber in foods.
- EU-recommended methods: European Commission guidance (2012) lists AOAC 985.29, AOAC 991.43, and AOAC 2009.01/2011.25 for comprehensive fiber determination.
- Nutritional claims: “Source of fibre” requires ≥ 3 g per 100 g (or ≥ 1.5 g per 100 kcal); “high fibre” requires ≥ 6 g per 100 g (EU Regulation 1924/2006).
- Labeling: Dietary fibre may be voluntarily declared under EU Regulation 1169/2011, Article 30(2).
- Updated methods: AOAC 2017.16 and AOAC 2022.01 capture all fiber fractions including resistant starch and low-molecular-weight soluble dietary fiber.
Testing Methods at Ovalab
Ovalab determines dietary fiber using the enzymatic-gravimetric method (AOAC 991.43) under ISO/IEC 17025:2018 accreditation (ČIA, Certificate 537/2025). The method involves enzymatic digestion of starch and protein, followed by gravimetric determination of fiber fractions. Results support nutritional labeling compliance and health claim verification.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between soluble and insoluble dietary fiber?
Insoluble fiber (IDF) includes cellulose and lignin; soluble fiber (SDF) includes pectins and beta-glucans. AOAC 991.43 quantifies both fractions separately.
Which method does Ovalab use for dietary fiber analysis?
Ovalab uses the AOAC 991.43 enzymatic-gravimetric method, recommended by the European Commission for food labeling. It determines total, soluble, and insoluble dietary fiber.
Can dietary fiber analysis support health claims?
Yes. EU Regulation 1924/2006 allows claims: ‘source of fibre’ requires ≥ 3 g/100 g; ‘high fibre’ requires ≥ 6 g/100 g. Analytical verification is mandatory.
Does AOAC 991.43 capture resistant starch?
AOAC 991.43 captures some but not all resistant starch. For comprehensive analysis including resistant starch and low-molecular-weight soluble fiber, AOAC 2017.16 or AOAC 2022.01 is recommended.
How much sample is needed for fiber testing?
At least 100 g of homogeneous sample is recommended. The exact amount varies by matrix — contact Ovalab for specific requirements.