A new analytical study has resulted in a range of analytical “fingerprints” that are used to determine the purity and potency of Pharmactive’s aged black garlic extract, Abg10+, and its concentrations of key bioactive compounds like S-allyl-L-cysteine (SAC), S-1-propenyl-L-cysteine (S1PC), and S-allylmercaptocysteine (SAMC).

The new study also addresses concerns about adulterated ingredients. Its findings can be used to verify the purity and potency of aged garlic supplements, versus those which contain contaminants or other adulterants. The study applied multiple mass-spectral methodologies to generate fingerprints of Abg10+ compared to 24 other aged garlic supplements.

The application of analytical techniques like liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and flow injection analysis-mass spectrometry (FIA-MS) revealed wide variability in SAC content in all 25 commercial aged garlic supplements, as well as other organosulfur compounds that have bioactive activity. Only about half of the supplements contained the listed amount of SAC found on labels.

Liquid chromatography-isotope ratio mass spectrometry, which is used for food authentication, can also be used to determine the natural origin of SAC found in ingredients. The results revealed that synthetic sources of SAC were used in competing products. The carbon isotopic value of SAC in Abg10+ was found to be -28.0%, which is in line with the natural reference, according to Pharmactive, while synthetic counterparts showed lower values of -22.3%, matching previously established synthetic SAC standards.

Adulteration is Prevalent

Aged black garlic products can be adulterated in multiple ways, Pharmactive reported, such as through dilution, the use of fillers, or the inclusion of undeclared compounds. Some low-quality products may contain pesticides and other contaminants or may be subject to excessive heat to shortcut the aging process which typically takes weeks. These products may claim to have higher concentrations of bioactives than they have, according to Pharmactive.

“Even with the implementation of regulatory measures, penalties, and enforcement to ensure honest labeling and safety, fraudulent products still manage to slip through the net,” said Carlos Rodríguez, communications manager at Pharmactive. “For that reason, we consistently evaluate our Abg10+ production from the raw material to the final product, applying in-process controls both in our factory and laboratory. We further conduct tests in clinical settings through third parties. All these safety and efficacy measures ensure that our customers are receiving 100% authentic aged garlic components supported by science to deliver what is promised.”

“Supplement adulteration is a more prevalent issue than many might assume,” said Ignacio Jiménez, PhD, lead author of the study. “It is quite common to find extracts or products that proclaim a specific bioactive but actually contain undeclared ingredients. A low price attached to an ABG supplement could indicate a lower-quality or even completely fraudulent product.”

Marina Díez Municio, head of R&D and quality control for Pharmactive, noted that for many competing products, sellers only indicate the plant from which the product is derived, the method of extraction, and compliance with regulatory requirements. “But there is no proper characterization of the product, which is its fingerprint. We standardize our product using precise analytical tools that have demonstrated reproducible results … In a market where transparency and quality are essential, we have implemented the same standardization process across our entire premium range.”

Pharmactive’s aged garlic extract production involves a traditional aging method on locally grown garlic bulbs, which develop the characteristic natural beige hue and exhibit improved organoleptic properties sought after for aroma and overall sensory appeal. This process also enriches the bulbs with antioxidants, such as organosulfur compounds, polyphenols, and amino acids like SAC, the latter of which can reach a ten-fold higher concentration during the traditional aging process. SAC is evidenced to have potential heart health benefits. Pharmactive’s process, ActiveNature, is designed to optimize the extraction and preservation of native SAC and other bioactive compounds through a unique aging technique and eco-friendly water-based extraction.

“Our aged garlic extract is produced under controlled temperature, without burning, which prevents the formation of harmful substances such as acrylamide and furfurals. Our traditional approach to aging and advanced extraction methods enhances the bioactive compounds, resulting in a purer and more beneficial product,” said Rodríguez.