HIGH-RESOLUTION GC OF UNSAPONIFIABLE MATTER AND STEROL FRACTION IN VEGETABLE-OILS

The analysis of both the total unsaponifiable matter and the sterol fractions in vegetable oils has been performed with a new polar column (TAP, Chrompack). The use of a polar column, which is characterized by high thermal stability, has led to the identification of a greater number of constituents than the use of a nonpolar column (i.e. SE 52, SE 54). The polar column enhances the separation of the main classes of unsaponifiable matter (sterols, 4-methyl sterols and 4,4'-dimethyl sterols). When used for the unsaponifiable and sterol fraction analyses, it offers a powerful tool for characterizing the lipid source.