Overview
SIST EN 18197:2026 - Algae and algae products - Determination of the amino acid profile of micro- and macroalgae - provides a standardized method for the quantitative analysis of amino acids in both microalgae and macroalgae. Developed by CEN/TC 454 “Algae and algae products” and adopted nationally by SIST, this European standard is essential for industries involved in the production and commercialization of algae and algae-based products. By establishing a uniform method, the standard supports consistency, reliability, and comparability in the assessment of amino acid profiles across the algae sector.
Key Topics
- Amino Acid Profiling: The standard details procedures for determining the presence and concentration of 17 amino acids, including alanine, arginine, aspartic acid (with asparagine), cystine (including cysteine), glutamic acid (with glutamine), glycine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, threonine, tyrosine, and valine.
- Analytical Techniques: Methodologies include high-performance hydrolysis and derivatization, with analysis using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) combined with either ultraviolet (UV) detection or mass spectrometry (MS).
- Scope: The method is specifically designed for algal biomass and is not applicable for determining tryptophan.
- Standardization Benefits: Ensures results are accurate and reproducible, supporting efficient communication and confidence between algae producers, manufacturers, laboratories, and regulatory entities.
- Reference to Other Standards: The procedure builds on techniques from standards such as ISO 4214 for dairy products and AOAC methods, adapting them for algae matrices.
Applications
SIST EN 18197:2026 finds practical value across a range of sectors involving algae and algae products:
- Food and Feed: Accurate amino acid profiles are critical for labeling, nutritional analysis, and validation of claims for proteins and essential amino acids in algae-based foods and animal feeds.
- Nutraceuticals and Supplements: Manufacturers use standard methods to ensure quality and consistency in dietary supplements derived from algae.
- Research and Development: Researchers benefit from a reliable, harmonized method when characterizing algae species or new products.
- Industrial Biotechnology: The standard supports the development of biobased materials and chemicals by enabling quality assessment of algal biomass as a feedstock.
- Regulatory Compliance: Compliance with this standard demonstrates adherence to recognized testing protocols, facilitating market acceptance and trade.
Related Standards
Organizations working with SIST EN 18197:2026 may also reference these related documents:
- EN 17399:2024 - Algae and algae products - Vocabulary
- EN 17605:2022 - Algae and algae products - Methods of sampling and analysis - Sample treatment
- ISO/DIS 4214 - Milk and milk products - Determination of amino acids in infant formula and other dairy products (under evaluation for adaptation)
- AOAC 2018.06 - Total Amino Acids in Infant Formulas and Adult Nutritionals
- AACC 07-50.01 - Total Amino Acids by UHPLC-UV
These standards complement SIST EN 18197:2026 by providing terminology, sampling methods, and analogous procedures in related matrices.
Conclusion
SIST EN 18197:2026 is central to the reliable analysis of the amino acid content in algae and algae products. Through clear procedures and alignment with international standards, it enhances product quality, supports innovation, and underpins regulatory and commercial confidence in the algae sector. With broad applicability in food, feed, biotechnology, and research, this standard is an indispensable reference for professionals involved with algae-based products.
Keywords: amino acid profile, algae analysis, microalgae, macroalgae, UHPLC, UV detection, mass spectrometry, protein assessment, standardization, biobased products, food safety, algae industry standards.