Application of 1H NMR in the study of fatty acids composition of vegetable oils

The fatty acid composition is a parameter that determines the quality and origin of vegetable oils. The standard method used in the analysis of fatty acid composition is gas chromatography (GC). In the last 20 years, however, the 1H NMR method has become more important in the analysis of fatty acids. Thanks to no need of special sample preparation, the high speed of analysis and the possibility to automate the process of analysis, 1H NMR is becoming a popular method of testing vegetable oils. It is possible to test oils both qualitatively and quantitatively, taking into account both the fatty acid profile and the level of minor components. In combination with statistical and chemometric methods, the analysis of 1H NMR spectra allows one to obtain much valuable information about the tested oil, considering its composition, quality, the presence of impurities, or the origin. The paper presents an overview of publications focusing on the application of the 1H NMR method in the profiling of fatty acids in vegetable oils.

Automated summary

The fatty acid composition of vegetable oils is crucial for determining their quality and origin. Gas chromatography (GC) has long been the standard method for analyzing fatty acid composition, but 1H NMR has gained importance in the past 20 years. The 1H NMR method offers advantages such as no special sample preparation, fast analysis, and the potential for automation. It allows for both qualitative and quantitative testing, considering the fatty acid profile and minor components. With the use of statistical and chemometric methods, 1H NMR spectra analysis provides valuable information about the composition, quality, impurities, and origin of tested oils.