Solvent fractionation technique paired with apparent solidification time (AST) test as a method to detect palm olein and sheep body fat in ghee (clarified milk fat)

摘要

Apparent solidification time (AST) test (min:sec) is defined as the time taken by the melted fat to get apparently solidified at a given temperature. It has been used to detect adulteration of palm olein and sheep body fat when added singly and in combination with ghee. The AST test was applied to samples containing combination of adulterants before and after solvent fractionation. The mixture of palm olein and sheep body fat was detectable at 9+21 % level. After fractionation, the lower level of 6+14 % was also found to be detectable. Thus, the solvent fractionation technique when coupled with AST enhances the sensitivity of AST Test and could be applied as a valuable parameter for checking adulteration of palm olein and sheep body fat in cow and buffalo ghee.