Anthocyanins, the poliphenols responsible for the beneficial proprieties of bilberry, are useful in the prevention and treatment of conditions associated with fragility of blood vessels and eye health
A study led by Indena researchers and recently published in the Journal of AOAC International [90 (4):911-9] has measured the quality of products containing bilberry extracts on the market.
Its purpose was to reveal differences between the various brands in terms of identity, conformity, dosages and labelling.
The results were disappointing.
Forty preparations containing bilberry extract, marketed under 24 different brands, were bought in the USA, Italy, Japan and Malaysia and analysed with a validated HPLC method to establish their content in anthocyanins (anthocyanosides).
The HPLC fingerprint of 25% of the products revealed a profile different from the authentic bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus, L) extract; 10% of the products examined did not even contain the active principle anthocyanin, and only 15% of the preparations examined were found to possess a sufficient quantity of anthocyanin proven to be effective in clinical trials.
According to Roberto Pace, Indena's analytical research director and author of the study: "in order to unequivocally identify and quantify the profile of a botanical extract, Indena has always developed and validated analytical methods, which are recognised as reliable and reproducible.
"With this study we have highlighted how the use of validated analytical methods to determine identity can be successfully applied to single or multi-component formulations".
It also emerged from the analysis that only 65% of products sold in the United States contained ingredients that matched what was declared on the label.
Commenting on these results, Christian Artaria, Director Marketing at Indena, confirmed that: "Indena has always strived to ensure that the production of botanical derivatives respects good agricultural practices (Gaps) and good manufacturing practices (GMPs).
"Indena has also been collaborating with different associations, such as the European pharmacopoeia and the USP, to establish common analytical standards and methods of analysis.
"With this latest study we have unequivocally proven the importance of using validated analytical methods to guarantee not only the quality of raw materials, but also the quality and authenticity of finished formulations.
"At Indena, we believe that the introduction and correct application of the new GMPs in the USA, together with the use of officially validated analytical methods, will at last ensure high quality dietary products ".
