Analytical approaches for estimation of B vitamins in food: a review on the shift from single to multi-vitamin analysis

B vitamin analysis, irrespective of matrix, is broadly categorized into two main approaches: individual estimation methods and simultaneous multi-vitamin estimation methods. In this review, individual vitamin estimation methodologies such as microbiological assays, spectrofluorometric techniques, spectrophotometric methods, and immunoassays have been reviewed, with a focus on their principles, advantages, and limitations. For simultaneous multi-vitamin estimation, the emphasis is on liquid chromatography-based techniques, which provide a robust and efficient means of multi-analyte determination. Additionally, all relevant standard methods established by the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) for B vitamin analysis in dairy and other food products have been thoroughly reviewed, offering a comprehensive overview of standardized practices. Unlike conventional methods such as spectrophotometry, spectrofluorometry, or microbiological assays, which are time-consuming and limited to detecting only a particular vitamin at a time, chromatographic techniques enable the simultaneous estimation of multiple vitamins. This advancement significantly enhances efficiency and accuracy in both the food and pharmaceutical sectors, ensuring more precise assessments of vitamin content. As analytical methodologies continue to evolve, they facilitate more comprehensive evaluations, contributing to improved nutritional insights and product development. This transition underscores a commitment to advancing scientific practices to meet the growing nutritional demands and regulatory standards essential for safeguarding public health.