A Multidisciplinary Analytical Strategy for the Authentication and Quality Assessment of Bromelain in Dietary Supplements

Bromelain is a complex of proteolytic enzymes obtained from Ananas comosus, widely used in dietary supplements for its anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, anti-edema, and wound-healing properties. Despite its broad commercial use, the quality control of bromelain-based products is often limited to enzymatic activity assays, which may not be sufficient for confirming authenticity. This study aimed to evaluate the quality of bromelain-containing products. Four commercially available bromelain samples were analyzed using a multidisciplinary analytical strategy. The study results demonstrated that only one of the assessed raw materials met the declared values in terms of bromelain activity and quality. Of the other three samples, two showed no enzymatic activity, while the other revealed activity complying with the declared specification that was due to papain, rather than bromelain. The present study demonstrates that enzymatic activity alone is insufficient to validate the quality of bromelain and related finished formulations. An integrated analytical approach is essential to detect adulteration, confirming authenticity and ensuring the safety and efficacy of bromelain supplements. Such methodologies should become a regulatory priority in the nutraceutical industry to protect consumer health and ensure product integrity.