Rapid method to determine the molecular weight of dextrins and dextrans

A rapid method was developed to determine the molecular weight (Mn) of β-limit dextrin and dextrans (Leuconostoc mesenteroides) using a reducing power approach. The Mn of the β-limit dextrin was also estimated from high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Chromatograms were pre-calibrated with the dextrans. The three dextrins had a Mn of 2.09, 2.40 and 2.63 × 105 using the reducing method and 4.80, 5.90 and 2.80 × 105 by HPLC. The method could be employed to estimate Mn of dextrins where chromatographic systems were not available.