New Technology Advances Fiber Analysis

HARRISTOWN, Ill.—As consumers become more aware of dietary fiber in foods and its correlating health benefits, EPL Bio Analytical Services (EPL) has started using ANKOM Technology to advance its dietary fiber analysis.

The analysis of dietary fiber is among the most complicated and tedious of analytical methods, according to EPL, but ANKOM Technology develops instruments that automate labor-intensive methods and improve accuracy and precision. The ANKOM Dietary Fiber Analyzer created a new standard for nutritional labeling, quality control and research, while also automating one of the most tedious analytical methods.

ANKOM technology reduces labor and per sample costs, and also increases accuracy and precision, the company said. An advanced computer-controlled multichannel pump automates the addition of chemical solutions, enzymes and rinses. Temperatures and agitation levels are controlled throughout the process, eliminating the need for multiple water baths and freeing up lab counter space. Advanced filter bag technology increases filtering surface area, which reduces the time needed to filter samples and eliminates the use of vacuum flasks and crucibles.