Fatty Acid Profiling of Oils

Olive oil is a very valuable commodity, which in some circumstances has led to the illicit practice of adulteration with cheaper oils (e.g hazelnut or sunflower oil). To combat this, a method known as FAME profiling can be used for oil identification. FAME profiling is the process of analysing the ratios of individual fatty acids within an oil sample. It works on the basis that different oils contain primarily different ratios of fatty acid types. To allow for analysis, the oils must first be derived to their fatty acid methyl ester equivalent (FAME).

This allows manufacturers and wholesalers the ability to confirm the authenticity of the products being bought and sold.

The Ellutia 200 series Gas Chromatograph (GC) is an ideal instrument for this analysis. The 200 series GC comes with a split split-less injector, fully temperature programable oven, electronic carrier gas control, and a flame ionisation detector as standard. The compact size (16(H) x 41(W) x 34(D) cm) and lower purchase cost makes it ideal of all sizes of budgets and laboratories.

For more information, a detailed application note has been produced. Please visit https://ilmt.co/PL/GvJG