Acid value determination

The acid value is a fundamental parameter for assessing the quality of oils, fats, and lipid products. It expresses the amount of free fatty acids present in a matrix, generally in mg of KOH required to neutralize 1 g of sample. This measurement is directly linked to rancidity and hydrolysis, which affect the stability, shelf life, and safety of the products.

Acid value control is essential in various industrial sectors. In the food industry, it ensures the quality of vegetable oils, butters, and margarines. In animal nutrition, it guarantees the conformity of fats used as raw materials. In the nutraceutical and cosmetic sectors, it contributes to the characterization of lipid extracts and the evaluation of their purity.

The analysis is performed by acid-base titration, generally using sodium hydroxide, a reference method recognized for its reliability and reproducibility. This assay is an essential quality control tool in the production chain, from the selection of raw materials to the monitoring of finished products.

Matrices concerned:
Vegetable oils, animal fats, processed products, lipid-enriched powders, cosmetic formulations.

Applications

• Rancidity detection and oil oxidation monitoring
• Verification of the quality of lipid raw materials
• Regulatory control of foodstuffs and supplements
• Standardization of nutraceutical and cosmetic products

Additional analyses
: For a complete characterization of oils and fats, the acid value can be combined with:

• The measurement of the peroxide value , which measures the primary oxidation of lipids.
• Fatty acid analysis , in order to determine the nutritional profile and detailed lipid composition.
• Iodine index measurement , useful for assessing the degree of fat unsaturation.

YesWeLab, your analytical partner.
At YesWeLab, we collaborate with a rigorously selected network of laboratories, most of which are certified and/or accredited (ISO 17025, COFRAC). Depending on your needs, we guide you towards the most suitable technique and the most competent laboratory to analyze your samples.

Our scientific team is available to meet your specific requirements, whether for particular matrices or standard methods (for example, ISO 660 for determining the acid value in oils and greases). Since 2020, numerous manufacturers, distributors, and engineering firms have entrusted us with the management of their analyses, sending us their samples via our digital platform.

To learn more or submit a specific need, contact our team now.