Ingredient Selection Beyond Price per Kilogram

The right sourcing decision considers what the ingredient contains, how it behaves and the documentation behind it.

Active marker percentage

Align concentration and analytical method with the active-marker requirement of the formulation.

Extraction ratio

Review how the stated ratio relates to the starting material, extraction process and final extract.

Botanical source

Confirm botanical identity and source information for the selected ingredient.

Plant part

Distinguish root, leaf, seed, fruit, peel and resin grades before comparing quotations.

Solvent system

Understand the extraction solvent and the residual-solvent information available.

Carrier content

Clarify added carriers or excipients and their impact on concentration and compatibility.

Moisture

Review loss-on-drying or moisture requirements against the chosen grade and storage conditions.

Particle size

Check suitability for blending, dispersing, encapsulating and the intended manufacturing process.

Microbiological specifications

Align the agreed limits with the intended application and review the available batch documentation.

Heavy metals

Review grade-specific limits and documentation in the context of the intended market.

Residual solvents

Check the declared extraction process and applicable residual-solvent information.

Stability

Discuss storage, packaging and available stability or shelf-life documentation for the grade.

Regulatory suitability

Assess the ingredient and intended use for your destination market with your regulatory team.

Cost per active constituent

Compare price alongside active concentration, analytical method, carriers and usable yield.

Formulation compatibility

Consider solubility, dispersibility, colour, flavour and interactions in your actual product system.

A MORE USEFUL COMPARISON

Understand the cost of the active.

A useful starting point is to compare the price of the ingredient with the confirmed active fraction. This does not replace assessment of method, formulation yield or grade quality.

Ingredient price per kgConfirmed active fraction
(marker % ÷ 100)

= Indicative cost per kg of active constituent