Two techniques do most of the heavy lifting in an analytical laboratory: high-performance liquid chromatography and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. They are related, often complementary, and frequently confused. Here is how to choose.
What HPLC does well
HPLC separates the components of a mixture and measures how much of each is present. It is the standard tool for quantifying potency and purity, answering "how much active compound is in this sample, and how clean is it?" It is fast, robust and cost-effective.
What LC-MS adds
HPLC tells you that something is present; it does not, on its own, prove what that something is. Mass spectrometry identifies each separated compound by its molecular mass and fragmentation pattern. That makes LC-MS the definitive tool for confirming identity and detecting substitution or adulteration.
Choosing between them
- Use HPLC when identity is not in doubt and you need potency and purity.
- Use LC-MS when you need to prove the compound is genuinely what it claims to be.
- Use both for any product where identity and dose each carry real risk.
If you are unsure, our laboratory team will recommend the right method for your sample and your question. There is no value in paying for analysis that does not answer it.