Fatty Acids and Tocopherols Content in Fractionated Oils from Five Wild Oilseed Plants Native to Kahuzi-Biega National Park, Kivu-DR Congo

Solvent fractionation of oils from five wild oilseed plants native to Kahuzi-Biega National Park (KBNP) in DR Congo reveals significant potential for enhancing food quality. The process effectively modifies the proportions of saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acids (SFA-MUFA-PUFA), with notable nutritional benefits such as increased levels of essential unsaturated fatty acids like nevronic acid while reducing unwanted fatty acids like behemic acid. Notably, Cardiospermum halicacabum olein fraction exhibits a high monounsaturated fatty acid profile (77%), mirroring that of olive oil, suggesting its potential as a substitute for this expensive oil after minor adaptations. Additionally, Millettia dura oils are notably rich in active vitamin E compounds, including tocopherols and tocotrienol, with the highest content recorded at 9.6 mg/100 g, further enhancing their nutritional value. The study utilized solvent fractionation of crude oils, followed by Gas Chromatography (GC) for fatty acid analysis and High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) for tocopherol analysis, demonstrating the efficiency of this method in modifying oil profiles to improve food quality.

Minzangi, K., Kadima, J., Kaaya, A., Matthäus, B., Damme, P., Samvura, B., Mosibono, D., Belesi, K., & Mpiana, P. (2015). Fatty Acids and Tocopherols Content in Fractionated Oils from Five Wild Oilseed Plants Native to Kahuzi-Biega National Park, Kivu-DR Congo. European Journal of Medicinal Plants, 10(1), 1–9. https://doi.org/10.9734/ejmp/2015/19653