Oxidation stability of fats and oils

Objective of the analysis

The oxidative stability of fatty substances is a critical parameter in the development and marketing of products containing oils, butters or lipid extracts. Under the influence of oxygen, heat or light, lipids can degrade, generating undesirable volatile compounds (aldehydes, ketones) and a loss of sensory, nutritional or functional quality.

The Rancimat or Oxipres test measures the oxidation induction time: this is the moment when degradation becomes rapid and significant.

Available methods

• Rancimat method: accelerated oxidation of a sample at controlled temperature (90–130 °C), under constant air flow. The induction time is measured via the detection of volatile compounds.
• Oxipres method: measurement under oxygen pressure in a hermetic enclosure, simulating extreme oxidation conditions to compare different samples.

These methods are used in quality control, in R&D formulation or to estimate the shelf life of products containing fats.

Analyzed matrices

• Vegetable oils (olive, sunflower, flax, etc.)
• Animal or dairy fats (butter, lard)
• Functional lipid blends (cosmetics, creams, supplements)
• Foods rich in lipids (purees, sauces, biscuits, plant extracts)
• Ingredients intended for animal nutrition, aromatherapy or nutraceuticals

Interests of the analysis

• Evaluate and compare oxidative stability between batches, formulations, or ingredient sources
• Determine the expected lifespan of a product
• Justify the use of natural or synthetic antioxidants
• Optimize storage conditions (temperature, packaging, protective atmosphere)
• Meet regulatory, quality or marketing requirements (claims “guaranteed stability”, “no oxidation”, etc.)

Related products and services

• Accelerated stability test
• Cosmetic stability test
• Photostability of sunscreens

Why go through YesWeLab?

At YesWeLab , we select for you the best laboratories with expertise in lipid stability, accredited ISO 17025, to guarantee reliable, reproducible and usable results. You benefit from:

• Personalized scientific support, to choose the right method according to your matrix
• Logistical and regulatory support via our digital platform
• Centralized access to more than 200 analytical services for complete monitoring of your ingredients or finished products

Request your quote now

Our team will respond quickly to configure the test tailored to your product. For any specific questions or specifications to be met, please specify your expectations when submitting your request.