Optimization of Enzymatic Synthesis of Phytosteryl Caprylates Using Response Surface Methodology

Phytosterols are known to lower total blood cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. However, low solubility of phytosterols in edible oils and their high melting point limit their use in food products. Esterification of phytosterols with fatty acids will render them higher solubility in oils and lowers their melting points. In this work, caprylic acid (C8:0) was selected for the esterification process because it serves as a rapid energy source with little or no deposition in the body and is often recommended by nutritionists for the treatment of candidiasis due to its antimicrobial properties. Here optimization of enzymatic synthesis of phytosteryl caprylates using response surface methodology (RSM) was investigated. The optimization process used a face-centred central composite design (CCD) and under optimized conditions (9.25 h, 2.15 substrate mole ratio, and 7.93% enzyme load) the resultant conversion yield was 98%.