Recent advances in nutritional science have led to the development of a novel in vitro protocol designed specifically to assess the digestibility and digestible indispensable amino acid score (DIAAS) of dietary proteins. The methodology, known as INFOGEST Quant, represents a significant enhancement over the earlier INFOGEST static digestion model (INFOGEST 2.0). This new approach incorporates a systematic workflow aimed at quantifying total protein digestibility, individual amino acid digestibility, and ultimately, the DIAAS. As a key component in nutritional evaluations, this standardized method has the potential to revolutionize the way we understand dietary proteins and their nutritional value.
The process of establishing DIAAS begins with an intricate protocol that has been meticulously validated against in vivo data. Researchers have undertaken rigorous testing using identical food samples to ascertain the accuracy of the INFOGEST Quant method. This validation process has resulted in a strong correlation between the in vitro and in vivo findings, reinforcing the method’s relevance and reliability in assessing protein digestibility. Such correlations are fundamental as they provide confidence to nutrition scientists and industry stakeholders in interpreting and applying the results derived from this method.
Part of what sets INFOGEST Quant apart is its focus on the measurable outcomes that are crucial in nutritional assessments. The method is particularly notable for its capability to separate nonabsorbable peptides and proteins after the in vitro digestion process. This step is critical, as it allows researchers to isolate the absorbable fraction of proteins, which is then analyzed using sophisticated ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) equipped with ultraviolet detection. This advanced analytical technique enables precise quantification not only of total amino acids but also of individual amino acids, facilitating a comprehensive understanding of protein digestibility.
The quantification process of the absorbable fraction unveils a wealth of information about the amino acid profile of the tested dietary proteins. By employing UHPLC, researchers can gain insights into how well different proteins are digested and what proportions of their amino acids can be absorbed by the human body. Such detailed analyses are invaluable in the context of personalized nutrition and diet formulation, allowing for tailor-made dietary recommendations based on individual nutritional requirements and protein sources.
In addition to the primary UHPLC method, INFOGEST Quant also presents two alternative strategies for protein quantification: the Kjeldahl method for protein titration and spectrophotometric analysis using o-phthalaldehyde. While these alternative approaches are valid, they are primarily applicable for the calculation of total digestibility and a proxy-digestible indispensable amino acid ratio. These proxy measures can serve as approximations of the DIAAS, providing additional flexibility for researchers who may not have access to advanced chromatographic technologies.
The accessibility of the INFOGEST Quant protocol is one of its standout features. The procedure requires only standard laboratory equipment and reagents, making it highly feasible for routine application in nutrition and food science laboratories. Furthermore, it is designed so that individuals with basic training in biochemistry or related disciplines can proficiently execute the protocol. This democratization of scientific techniques is vital for expanding the scope of nutritional research beyond specialized institutions.
The protocol involves preparatory steps that take approximately six days to complete, providing researchers with a structured timeline to follow. However, the full workflow, which can be conducted in triplicate, can be finished within about eight days, allowing laboratories to efficiently manage their workload and resources. The analysis phase—an additional step that takes between three to five days—is contingent on the chosen method, further contributing to its versatility.
Notably, the application of the INFOGEST Quant method is paramount for advancing our understanding of dietary proteins’ roles in health. As researchers uncover new insights into protein digestibility and amino acid availability, they can make significant strides in nutritional science, public health recommendations, and the food industry. The implications of such research extend beyond academic circles, influencing food product development, dietary guidelines, and health education.
Moreover, as the global population increasingly turns to plant-based diets, the need for reliable methods to assess the digestibility of various protein sources becomes even more critical. Protein sources can vary widely in their amino acid composition, digestibility, and nutritional impacts. INFOGEST Quant equips researchers with the tools necessary to evaluate these differences systematically, fostering a deeper understanding of how different dietary proteins can meet human protein needs.
The growing collaboration between food scientists, nutritionists, and public health professionals underscores a collective aim to improve dietary practices globally. By employing standardized methods like INFOGEST Quant, researchers can contribute toward the creation of evidence-based nutrition policies that reflect the complexities of dietary protein consumption in various populations. This collaborative approach is essential in tackling prevalent issues such as malnutrition and obesity, which have profound implications for health systems worldwide.
In conclusion, the INFOGEST Quant protocol stands as a beacon of innovation in the realm of nutritional science, offering a robust and standardized in vitro method for assessing protein digestibility and DIAAS. Its validation, ease of use, and potential applications in personalized nutrition and public health hold promise for the future of dietary assessment. As researchers continue to refine our understanding of dietary proteins, the insights garnered from this method are likely to shape the nutritional landscape, ensuring that individuals and communities can make informed choices about their diets and overall health.
This pioneering work not only highlights the advances in food science but also reiterates the importance of standardized methods in nutritional research. With the potential for widespread application and relevance, INFOGEST Quant is set to make a lasting impact, not only in illuminating dietary proteins’ complexities but also in enhancing public health outcomes on a global scale.
Subject of Research: Digestibility and Digestible Indispensable Amino Acid Score (DIAAS) of Dietary Proteins
Article Title: INFOGEST Quant: standardized in vitro determination of digestibility and DIAAS of dietary proteins based on the INFOGEST static digestion model.
Article References:
Egger, L., Blanco-Doval, A., Sousa, R. et al. INFOGEST Quant: standardized in vitro determination of digestibility and DIAAS of dietary proteins based on the INFOGEST static digestion model.
Nat Protoc (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41596-025-01307-9
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41596-025-01307-9
Keywords: Digestibility, Dietary Proteins, Amino Acids, DIAAS, INFOGEST Quant, Nutritional Science, In Vitro Methodology, Ultrahigh-Performance Liquid Chromatography, Standardized Protocol.
