Qualitative and quantitative assessment of lactoferrin in dietary supplements: Methodology and legal implications

The study investigates the serious issue of dietary supplement falsification, which increasingly threatens public health. It focuses on lactoferrin (LF), a protein valued for its antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties, and examines discrepancies between its declared and actual contents in supplements. Such discrepancies can deceive consumers and pose health risks. The research utilized various analytical methods—spectrophotometry, SDS-PAGE gel electrophoresis, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS)—to evaluate the quality and authenticity of two LF-containing supplements. Findings indicated significant variations between the manufacturers' stated LF levels and those found, underscoring the need for stricter supplement labeling regulations and improved product quality control. The study advocates for the use of multiple analytical techniques to accurately identify and verify the active ingredients in dietary supplements. Additionally, it addresses the legal dimensions of supplement falsification, referencing both Polish and European Union legislation. These insights are crucial for both consumers and regulators to ensure the safety and effectiveness of dietary supplements on the market. • HPLC alone is not enough for lactoferrin quality control. • Specifications for lactoferrin should include identity tests. • Lack for strict lactoferrin quality regulations leads to its falsifications. • Weaknesses of regulations on dietary supplements are the reason of their bad quality.