Free fatty acid dosage

fatty acid (FFA ) analysis is essential for assessing the quality, stability, and purity of oils and fats . FFAs result from the hydrolysis of triglycerides, a process accelerated by heat, light, humidity, or enzymatic activity. Their accumulation indicates lipid degradation, which can alter the organoleptic and nutritional properties of products.

The analysis is carried out either by titrimetry (determination of the acidity index), or by gas chromatography (GC-FID or GC-MS) , depending on the level of precision required and the complexity of the matrix.

Principle and operation of the method

Two main analytical approaches are used for the measurement of free fatty acids:

• Titrimetric method (acidity index) : based on the neutralization of fatty acids by an alkaline solution (often KOH or NaOH). The result, expressed in mg KOH/g of sample, reflects the total amount of free fatty acids present. This method is rapid and suitable for routine quality control.
• Chromatographic method (GC-FID or GC-MS) : after extraction and derivatization, the free fatty acids are separated and individually quantified. GC -FID provides precise quantification of saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, while GC -MS allows for detailed structural identification, particularly for specific or oxidized fatty acids.

These methods guarantee the reliability of quality control and the traceability of batches of oils and lipid extracts.

Analytical performance and related analyses

The FFA assay allows us to:

• detect lipid degradation and fat oxidation,
• to assess the storage stability of vegetable oils and lipid extracts,
• monitor the quality of food, nutraceutical or cosmetic formulations.

For a complete assessment of the lipid profile, this analysis can be supplemented by:

• the dosage of total fatty acids,
• the measurement of fatty acid methyl esters (FAME),
• the determination of peroxide and oxidation number,
• or the measurement of tocopherols and natural antioxidants

These additional analyses make it possible to characterize the entire lipid profile and to determine the stability of the products over time.

Applications and areas of use

The measurement of free fatty acids is applicable to many sectors:

• Human food : quality and freshness control of oils, margarines, food fats and natural extracts.
• Nutraceutical : verification of the stability and purity of formulations enriched with essential fatty acids (omega-3, omega-6).
• Animal nutrition : monitoring the lipid quality of fats used in feed formulations.
• Cosmetics and plants : stability control of vegetable oils, butters and extracts used in natural care and products.

Regular monitoring of FFA levels is a reliable indicator of lipid degradation, ensuring the safety and performance of finished products.

The advantages of the YesWeLab service

YesWeLab relies on a network of partner laboratories specializing in lipid analysis, accredited to ISO 17025 and COFRAC standards. Each project is entrusted to a laboratory selected according to the matrix (food, plant, or cosmetic) and the most relevant analytical method.

Thanks to its digital analysis platform, YesWeLab simplifies the management of your analyses: requesting quotes, sending samples, and real-time tracking. Since 2020, numerous manufacturers, formulators, and distributors have trusted us for the quality control of their lipid products.

For any specific needs regarding free fatty acid analysis, contact our scientific team to obtain a personalized quote and tailored technical support.