Determination of Sterol Content and Composition

Determination of Sterol Content and Composition

Sterol is, by definition, a steroid substance found in animal and plant tissues. Sterols are present in the content of non-saponifiers and since they are like fingerprints of oils, the sterol composition of each oil type is different. Since sterols are part of the unsaponifiable material, it is necessary to separate the sterols and this process uses thin layer chromatography.

Determination of Sterol Content and Composition

Sterols are found in the cell membrane and are responsible for regulating the fluidity and function of the cell. Different sterols are found in different organisms. in animals; cholesterol, phytosterols and steroids. Of these sterols, the main source of phytosterols are nuts, oil seeds, legumes and vegetables.

Phytosterols lower good cholesterol (LDL) in the human body. For this reason, today plant sterols are used in the fight against cholesterol, the most important sterol in animal tissues.

By determining the sterol content and composition, it is determined whether different oils are mixed or not. It is possible to prevent adulterations with this analysis method.

Relevant standards;

  • 1991R2568-EN Olive Oil and Olive Residue Oil Properties and Related Analysis Methods
  • TS EN ISO 12228 Animal and vegetable fats and oils-Determination of individual and total sterol content-Gas chromatographic method
  • TS 7503 Search for vegetable oil by gas-liquid chromatography of milk fat-sterols (reference method)

In our laboratories with international accreditation, "Determination of Sterol Content and Composition" is carried out in animal fats, milk and dairy products in accordance with the relevant legal regulations and standards.

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