Production Project Engineer La Fabril Manta, Manabi, Ecuador
Abstract: 3-monochloropropane-1,2-diol (3-MCPD) and glycidyl esters (GEs) are chemical compounds that can form during the processing of refined edible oils, particularly during high-temperature refining processes. These compounds have been identified as potential health hazards and occur at low levels in some refined vegetable oils and fats. This research aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed strategies to reduce the levels of these compounds in edible oils at an industrial scale.
The control process of raw materials during palm oil extraction and the selection of the best raw materials for refining are effective methods for reducing the levels of contaminants. These also involved evaluating the oilseed selection, agricultural practices, storage, and process conditions. For 3-MCPD, the control of chlorinated compounds that intervene in the extraction and refining process was essential. Additionally, a post-treatment of refined oils using bleaching earth under specific conditions was proposed, which includes monitoring diglycerides (DAGs) content, as a method of effectively reducing GE levels.
Consequently, these resulted in a significant reduction of 3-MCPD to < 0.6 mg/kg and GE levels to < 0.5 mg/kg. All samples were analyzed in German and Dutch-certified laboratories to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the results.
This research on the reduction of 3-MCPD and GEs in edible oils is of significant importance as it helps to ensure the safety and quality of edible oils for human consumption. The proposed strategies have proven to be effective in reducing the levels of these contaminants and provide practical solutions that can be implemented at an industrial scale to produce safer oils and fats.
