PHYSICOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF PALM OIL IN IKA AREA, DELTA STATE, NIGERIA
Abstract
ABSTRACT
This study investigates the physicochemical quality of palm oil collected from mill in the Ika Area of Delta State, Nigeria, with the aim of assessing its safety, stability, and conformity to international standards. A total of nine palm oil samples were collected from different communities and analyzed for peroxide value, flash point, and chemical composition using standard titration methods and Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The results revealed a significant variation in quality across the samples. Peroxide values ranged from 45.91 to 378.22 meq/kg, exceeding the Codex Alimentarius recommended limit of 15 meq/kg, indicating extensive lipid oxidation. Flash point values varied between 176°C and 208°C, with some samples showing signs of thermal instability. GC-MS profiling identified both natural fatty acids and harmful synthetic compounds, notably dibutyl and di-sec-butyl phthalates, likely introduced through plastic contamination. The findings highlight inconsistent processing and storage practices among local producers and raise serious public health concerns. This study emphasizes the urgent need for regulatory enforcement, consumer education, and improved quality control in rural palm oil production. It also contributes valuable data for food safety policies and future research on edible oil quality in developing regions.
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