Resumen de Compositional Analyses and Shelf‐Life Modeling of Njangsa(Ricinodendron heudelotii) Seed Oil Using the Weibull Hazard Analysis
Harold K. Abaidoo‐Ayin, Prince G. Boakye, Kerby C. Jones, Victor T. Wyatt, Samuel A. Besong, Stephen E. Lumor
This study investigated the compositional characteristics and shelf‐life of Njangsaseed oil (NSO). Oil from Njangsahad a high polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) content of which alpha eleostearic acid (α‐ESA), an unusual conjugated linoleic acid was the most prevalent (about 52%). Linoleic acid was also present in appreciable amounts (approximately 34%). Our investigations also indicated that the acid‐catalyzed transesterification of NSO resulted in lower yields of α‐ESA methyl esters, due to isomerization, a phenomenon which was not observed under basic conditions. The triacylglycerol (TAG) profile analysis showed the presence of at least 1 α‐ESA fatty acid chain in more than 95% of the oil's TAGs. Shelf‐life was determined by the Weibull Hazard Sensory Method, where the end of shelf‐life was defined as the time at which 50% of panelists found the flavor of NSO to be unacceptable. This was determined as 21 wk. Our findings therefore support the potential commercial viability of NSO as an important source of physiologically beneficial PUFAs. Njangsa(Ricinodendron heudelotii) is a semi‐deciduous plant species indigenous to the coastal nations of West Africa. It contains a high percentage of heart‐healthy polyunsaturated fatty acids that could be used for health promoting applications. This study would benefit potential consumers due to the health promoting properties that result from the high concentration of conjugated linolenic acid in Njangsaoil. It will also benefit the communities in West Africa by commercializing the seed oil of a plant that is indigenous to their country.
