Determination of Unsaponifiable Substance: Methods of Analysis in Oil and Fat Products

Why is Non-Saponifiable Substance Determination Performed?

What are Non-Saponifiable Substances?

Non-saponifiable substance determination is a critical chemical analysis method used especially in cosmetics and oil analysis. It is frequently preferred for quality control and determination of chemical properties of vegetable and animal oils. This method helps to determine the quality standards of products by determining the amount of unsaponifiable substances contained in oils.

What are Unsaponifiables?

Unsaponifiables are defined as those components of an oil that cannot be saponified during the saponification process and are usually impure components of the oil. These substances can be sterols, hydrocarbons, pigments, alcohol derivatives and other organic compounds found in the natural structure of the oil.

• Sterols Cholesterol, sitosterol.
• Hydrocarbons Squalene.
• Pigments: Carotenoids and chlorophylls.
• Vitamins: Vitamin E (tocopherols).
• Natural Resins and Waxes

What is the Importance of Unsaponifiables?

1. Quality Control: Determines the degree of purity and processing of the oil.
2. Counterfeit Detection: The amount of unsaponifiables can help detect counterfeit or adulterated products.
3. Nutritional Value: Used to evaluate bioactive substances such as sterols and tocopherols.

In Which Areas Is Non-Saponifying Substance Determination Used?

1. Cosmetic Products: Required for quality control of oils used in the formulation of skin care products, soaps and creams.
2. Food Industry: Determination of unsaponifiable matter plays a critical role in determining the purity level of edible oils.
3. Chemical Industry: It is applied in the composition analysis of industrial oils used for special purposes.

Advantages and Importance

• Provides Quality Control: Determination of unsaponifiable matter determines the purity and suitability of oils for their intended use.
• Compliance with Standards: Helps ensure regulatory compliance for cosmetics and food products.
• Product Development: This analysis allows for the development of higher quality products, as unsaponifiables affect the texture, color and stability of products.

Effects of Unsaponifiables

These substances can increase or decrease the functional properties of the oil. For example

• Sterols: Strengthen the skin barrier and provide moisturizing effects.
• Hydrocarbons: Add lubricity to products.
• Pigments: Helps preserve natural colors.

Nano-lab Laboratories Group continues to provide services within the scope of Non-Saponifying Substance Determination. We also provide services in Olive Oil Analysis.

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