AOAC Method SMPR 2018.002 Instrumentation Guide

Standard Method Performance Requirements (SMPR) for Fructans in Animal Food (Animal Feed, Pet Food and Ingredients)

AOAC SMPR 2018.002 outlines the method performance requirements for accurately quantifying total fructans in animal food, pet food, and feed ingredients. Laboratories may use validated enzymatic-colorimetric or chromatographic methods, provided they achieve the required performance. These include a limit of quantitation (LOQ) of ≤ 0.1% (w/w), repeatability (RSDr) ≤ 6%, reproducibility (RSDR) ≤ 10%, and recovery within 90–110%. Ensuring minimal interference from sugars and starch is critical. The instruments listed below offer strong performance for both approaches and are compatible with AOAC SMPR 2018.002 requirements.

A photo of AGILENT HPLC-DAD System for AOAC Method SMPR 2018.002 that links to a catalog of Liquid Chromatography equipment.

Enzymatic-colorimetric assays are widely accepted for fructan analysis and depend on high-quality spectrophotometers or microplate readers for reliable absorbance detection at 510–540 nm. Chromatographic approaches must demonstrate the ability to separate fructans from other carbohydrates using validated HPLC systems. All instruments listed below support the accurate quantification of fructans in complex food matrices and enable regulatory compliance when properly validated. These platforms do not imply AOAC endorsement but meet the functional criteria needed to support this SMPR.

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Agilent 1260 Infinity II HPLC System with DAD Detector + BinPump for AOAC Method SMPR 2018.002

The Agilent 1260 Infinity II HPLC system, equipped with a diode array detector (DAD) and binary pump, is fully capable of separating and quantifying fructans in animal feed matrices. It supports high-resolution carbohydrate separation when paired with appropriate columns and validated methods. This system delivers consistent retention times and allows for precise identification of fructans even in the presence of sugars like glucose, sucrose, and lactose. Its modular design supports scalability for high-throughput testing labs and detailed method development.

Agilent’s OpenLab CDS software ensures traceability and regulatory-compliant reporting. With powerful baseline stability and low noise, the 1260 Infinity II system delivers the sensitivity required to meet the 0.1% LOQ threshold defined in the SMPR. When configured with validated gradient conditions and carbohydrate standards, this system enables accurate and reproducible fructan determination. Its durability and flexibility make it a strong option for laboratories following chromatographic paths to AOAC compliance.

Biotek Synergy H1 MultiMode Microplate Reader with Gen 5 Software for AOAC Method SMPR 2018.002

The Biotek Synergy H1 multimode reader, paired with Gen 5 software, is highly suitable for enzymatic-colorimetric analysis of fructans. It supports absorbance detection at the required 510–540 nm range and delivers exceptional signal precision for 96-well plate assays. This makes it ideal for laboratories using commercial fructan kits or validated in-house enzymatic protocols. The system’s built-in curve fitting and automatic quantitation tools streamline sample processing and data export for routine workflows.

Gen 5 software includes features for outlier rejection, plate mapping, and standard curve validation, helping laboratories meet AOAC criteria for data integrity. The Synergy H1’s rapid read times and reproducibility make it ideal for batch testing in pet food and feed ingredient matrices. With a small footprint and scalable configuration, it fits a wide range of testing environments. When used with validated enzymatic kits, this system provides dependable compliance with AOAC SMPR 2018.002.

Infinite® 200 PRO series M Plex Multimode Reader by Tecan for AOAC Method SMPR 2018.002

The Tecan Infinite 200 PRO M Plex reader is a robust platform for absorbance-based enzymatic analysis of fructans in animal food. It includes dedicated filters within the 510–540 nm range and offers software support for both endpoint and kinetic assays. With powerful curve-fitting algorithms and customizable templates, it easily handles commercial fructan assay kits. Its consistent performance and low variability make it well suited for regulated environments and batch analysis.

Its compact footprint and advanced temperature control features enhance assay reliability. Magellan software allows for flexible method setup and rapid export of quantitation results, supporting both R&D and quality control workflows. With reliable plate compatibility and high throughput potential, this Tecan reader meets all analytical expectations of AOAC SMPR 2018.002 when paired with a validated enzymatic protocol. Its versatility and precision make it a valuable tool in animal feed testing labs.

Thermo Scientific Multiskan FC Microplate Photometer for AOAC Method SMPR 2018.002

The Multiskan FC Microplate Photometer from Thermo Scientific is designed specifically for absorbance-based assays and supports measurements at 510 nm and other standard ELISA wavelengths. Its high photometric accuracy ensures clear signal detection even in complex matrices such as animal feed or pet food. With integrated SkanIt software, users can easily perform data normalization, curve interpolation, and validation according to AOAC SMPR standards. Its compact design supports reliable throughput for food labs of all sizes.

This system supports a variety of microplate formats, allowing flexible workflow integration. It delivers dependable, reproducible data and features onboard protocols for routine enzymatic analysis. Designed for simplicity and speed, the Multiskan FC is especially suitable for labs that rely on commercial enzymatic kits for fructan testing. When operated within a validated protocol, it provides the sensitivity, accuracy, and repeatability needed for AOAC Method SMPR 2018.002 compliance.

Molecular Devices SpectraMax ABS or ABS Plus for AOAC Method SMPR 2018.002

The SpectraMax ABS and ABS Plus readers by Molecular Devices provide accurate, wavelength-specific detection for colorimetric assays, including those targeting fructans. With detection capabilities at 510 nm and beyond, these readers support a broad range of enzymatic applications. SoftMax Pro software enables custom curve generation, sample interpolation, and comprehensive QC analysis. These tools help ensure that performance requirements such as RSDr and recovery limits are met consistently.

These instruments offer high throughput, low background noise, and superior optical stability. Their robust construction and validated output make them a reliable choice for feed testing labs. Whether processing a few samples or full 96-well plates, SpectraMax readers provide data integrity and ease of use. When used with approved enzymatic assay kits, they deliver accurate results for AOAC SMPR 2018.002 workflows. Their widespread use in food analysis reflects their trustworthiness and proven performance.

BMG LABTECH SPECTROstar Nano for AOAC Method SMPR 2018.002

The SPECTROstar Nano from BMG LABTECH delivers full-spectrum absorbance from 220 to 1000 nm and is optimized for precision at 510–540 nm, the key detection range for fructan enzymatic assays. It features rapid read speeds and high reproducibility, making it ideal for routine fructan analysis using commercial or in-house methods. The MARS software suite includes curve-fitting tools and statistical validation features that help ensure method compliance with SMPR limits for LOQ and reproducibility.

This instrument handles both microplate and cuvette formats, giving users flexibility for method development or routine batch testing. Its small footprint and user-friendly controls support lab efficiency and workflow consistency. The SPECTROstar Nano meets performance expectations for enzyme-based fructan assays and supports traceable, AOAC-aligned quantitation. It is a trusted tool in analytical laboratories seeking accuracy and scalability in animal feed testing.

Choosing the Right Instrumentation for AOAC SMPR 2018.002

  • Validated HPLC approach: Agilent 1260 Infinity II with DAD and BinPump for chromatographic separation
  • Top enzymatic plate readers: Biotek Synergy H1, Tecan Infinite 200 PRO, Thermo Multiskan FC
  • Advanced absorbance readers: SpectraMax ABS/Plus and SPECTROstar Nano for full-spectrum accuracy

AOAC SMPR 2018.002 allows flexibility in method selection but demands accuracy, reproducibility, and clear quantitation of fructans in animal food. The instruments listed above offer validated or conditionally compatible performance for enzymatic or HPLC-based approaches. We offer certified refurbished systems tailored to your workflow needs and budget. Contact us today to find the right solution for your lab and ensure compliance with AOAC standards.