Advancements in Supercritical Fluid Chromatography for Chaga Mushroom Analysis

In a groundbreaking study published on July 24, 2025, researchers from the University of Helsinki and the University of Vienna have developed a supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC)-based approach to extract, identify, and quantify key components from chaga mushrooms (Inonotus obliquus), a fungus noted for its potential health benefits. This innovative method establishes a new standard in quality control for chaga, which is increasingly popular in functional foods and dietary supplements due to its reputed medicinal properties.

Historically, chaga mushrooms have been utilized for their believed health benefits, including immune system enhancement and cancer-fighting abilities. According to a 2023 article by M.J. Brown published on Healthline, chaga is often consumed through infusions and is marketed for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The demand for chaga products has surged, prompting the need for standardized quality assessment methods, as current regulations primarily stem from Soviet-era guidelines, which are insufficient for modern applications.

The researchers' study, outlined in *Journal of Chromatography A*, introduces a reliable protocol that successfully utilizes supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) techniques to isolate six notable triterpenoids: lanosterol, ergosterol, inotodiol, trametenolic acid B, betulin, and inonotsutriol A. This approach not only enhances the extraction yields but also improves the accuracy in identifying these compounds compared to traditional chromatographic methods.

Dr. Karl Kapp, a leading researcher in the study, emphasized the importance of this methodology, stating, "The SFC technique offers a faster, more selective, and environmentally friendly means of obtaining high-quality extracts, which is critical as the market for chaga supplements continues to expand. Our findings demonstrate that it is possible to achieve consistent results across various commercial samples, thereby improving the reliability of quality control processes."

The research team reported notable results, achieving linearity (R² ≥ 0.99) in photodiode array detection, and a minimum detection limit of 0.424 μg/mL. Their exhaustive 20-minute SFE method applied to 14 commercial chaga samples yielded extracts ranging from 0.17% to 0.58%, with inotodiol, trametenolic acid B, and lanosterol identified as the most abundant constituents.

This study not only highlights the advancements in chromatographic technologies but also underscores the urgent need for robust quality control measures in the herbal supplement industry. Dr. Ursel Grienke, co-author and a researcher in phytochemistry, noted, "The ability to quantify inonotsutriol A in commercial samples for the first time represents a significant step forward in our understanding of chaga's chemical profile and supports the need for improved quality assurance in herbal products."

As the chaga market continues to grow, the implications of these findings extend beyond academia and into industry practices. The establishment of standardized methods for quality assessment may lead to enhanced consumer trust and safety in herbal supplements. Furthermore, the environmentally sustainable aspects of supercritical fluid technologies align with the increasing demand for green chemistry practices in the food and pharmaceutical sectors.

In conclusion, the innovative use of supercritical fluid chromatography presents a promising future for the analysis of chaga mushrooms and potentially other herbal products. By advancing quality control measures and ensuring the integrity of health claims made by supplements, researchers are paving the way for a more responsible and reliable herbal industry. As further studies build upon this foundational work, the intersection of science and traditional medicine continues to evolve, offering new insights and benefits to consumers worldwide.