Acid Index Testing

The acid number is a fundamental parameter for assessing the quality of oils, fats, and lipid products. It expresses the quantity 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 or hydrolysis phenomena, which affect the stability, preservation, and safety of products.

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

The analysis is carried out by acid-base titrimetry, 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 monitoring of oil oxidation
• 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 index can be associated with:

• The peroxide index assay , which measures the primary oxidation of lipids.
• The dosage of fatty acids , in order to determine the nutritional profile and the detailed lipid composition.
• The iodine index assay , useful for assessing the degree of unsaturation of fats.

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

Our scientific team is available to meet your specific requirements, whether it involves specific matrices or standardized methods (for example, ISO 660 for the determination of the acid number in oils and fats). Since 2020, many manufacturers, distributors, and design offices have trusted us to manage their analyses, entrusting us with their samples via our digital platform.

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