NMN purity refers to the concentration of actual NMN in a product without contaminants or other substances. High-purity NMN means the supplement contains a high percentage of pure NMN, typically above 98% or 99%. Purity is essential as it affects the supplement's safety, efficacy, and overall quality.
Laboratory Testing for Purity
The most reliable method to test NMN purity is through laboratory analysis. Specialised companies or research institutions usually perform these tests. Here are the common techniques:
1. High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)
HPLC is the method we use at AgeMate, it is a powerful technique for separating, identifying, and quantifying each component in a mixture. It's considered the gold standard for determining NMN purity.
The process involves dissolving a sample of the NMN powder in a solvent and passing it through a column filled with a material that interacts differently with the substances in the sample.
The purity of NMN can be assessed by measuring the time it takes each substance to come out of the column (retention time) and comparing it to known standards.
2. Mass Spectrometry (MS)
Mass spectrometry is often used alongside HPLC to confirm the detected compounds' identity. It works by ionising chemical species and sorting the ions based on their mass-to-charge ratio. This technique is highly sensitive and can detect even tiny amounts of impurities.
3. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectroscopy
NMR spectroscopy is another method used to determine the purity and structure of NMN. It measures the magnetic properties of atomic nuclei in the NMN molecule. Scientists can confirm the compound's identity and purity by comparing the NMR spectrum of the sample with that of pure NMN.
Certificates of Analysis (CoA)
When purchasing NMN supplements, always ask for a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) from the seller. A CoA is a document the testing laboratory provides that summarises the test results, including purity levels. Ensure that the CoA is recent and correlates to the specific batch of NMN you're purchasing.
You can view AgeMate’s CoA here.
What to Look for in NMN Supplements
When selecting an NMN supplement, consider the following:
🟣Purity: Look for products with a 98% or higher purity.
🟣Testing: Choose products that have been third-party tested and come with a CoA.
🟣Reputation: Purchase from reputable brands with positive reviews and transparent testing practices.
🟣Stability and Storage: Ensure the product is stable and stored properly to maintain its effectiveness.
🟣Regulatory Compliance: Check that the product complies with local regulations and standards.
Conclusion
Testing for NMN purity is crucial to ensure you are getting a safe and effective product. While individual consumers cannot typically test NMN purity at home, understanding the methods used can help you make informed decisions when purchasing supplements.
AgeMate’s NMN products are third-party tested, transparent about their testing methods, and provide a clear CoA. Remember, when it comes to supplements, quality matters as much as the potential benefits.
