Related Application Notes - FAME

Experts in FAME Analysis

SCION Instruments has been named the recommended equipment for Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME) analysis by The GOED, the Global Organisation for EPA and DHA Omega-3 Fatty Acids.

Guidance documents released in June 2020 mentioned SCION Instruments 436-GC with PTV as the recommended equipment for getting optimal results for analysis of fatty acids. (The 8300 GC is the next generation 436 instrument, delivering the same excellent performance)

The document states:

“Recovery of long-chain unsaturated compound is the most challenging a GC can do. One recommendation to attain optimal analytical recovery is to reduce losses of EPA, DHA, and other polyunsaturated fatty acids during the GC-FID analysis to a minimum, in particular by using the best injector system that avoids thermal cracking and selective evaporation (discrimination). Achieving near 100% recovery has also been demonstrated to continue to minimise inter-laboratory variability. Near 100% recover has been achieved using GC-FID by SCION Instruments 436-GC Gas Chromatograph”.¹

Explore the rest of our article for more information on FAME analysis.

What Is FAME Analysis and Why Is It Important?

FAME analysis, also known as Fatty Acid Methyl Ester analysis, is a technique used to identify and quantify the fatty acid composition of a sample. The processes involves converting the fatty acids into their methyl esters where they are then analysed in detail through techniques such as gas chromatography (GC). Fatty acids can be found in a variety of things including oils, food products, environmental samples, and biological tissues.² Through FAME analysis we can obtain valuable information about samples lipid metabolisms, nutritional quality, environmental conditions, and microbial populations. Fatty acid analysis is additionally an important tool in optimising the taste, texture, and shelf life of food products.

FAME Analysing Using Gas Chromatography

FAME analysis is important for various reasons including:

Nutritional Assessment: Fatty acid composition analysis is essential for evaluating the nutritional quality of food products. Different fatty acids have different effects on human health, and their ratios can impact the nutritional value and potential health benefits of foods.²
Environmental Studies: FAME analysis is utilized in environmental research to study microbial communities, assess pollution levels, and monitor ecosystem health. Fatty acids derived from microorganisms can provide insights into microbial activities and community dynamics.³
Research and Industrial Applications: FAME analysis finds applications in research fields like biochemistry, lipid metabolism, microbiology, and pharmaceuticals. It aids in studying various processes including lipid synthesis, understanding metabolic pathways, and developing novel drugs.⁴

FAME Analysis by GC

Gas chromatography (GC) is commonly used for FAME analysis due to its high resolution, sensitivity, and ability to separate and identify individual fatty acids within a mixture.⁵ The process begins by extracting the fatty acids from a sample and converting them into their methyl ester derivatives through esterification. These derivatives are then injected into the GC which then separates the individual FAME compounds based on their chemical properties. A profile of the fatty acid composition in the sample is then provided.

GOED Recommended FAME Analysis Equipment

We are proud to have been named the recommended choice for FAME analysis by the GOED. Our chromatography range includes….

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