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Process Contaminants

Process contaminants are a group of unrelated compounds formed in the production of finished food products. Of particular interest is the occurrence of variable levels of 3-MCPD esters in refined vegetable oils. Discrepancies among different measurement techniques are ascribed to the presence of the potential precursor, glycidyl (glycidol) esters. The exact relationship, if any, between these two groups of compounds is unclear.

3-MCPD Esters

3-MCPD (3-monochloropropane-1,2-diol) in its free state—a potential carcinogen—is a contaminant of acid-hydrolyzed vegetable proteins and soy sauce. 3-MCPD esters have been identified in a number of foods and food ingredients, including refined vegetable oils.
  • 3-MCPD can be formed or lost during the process of extraction if strict protocols are not followed.
  • Methods of analysis rely on gas chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis of "total 3-MCPD" after saponification of the full spectrum of 3-MCPD mono- and diesters. These methods require the use of isotopically labeled standards.
  • A paper by Nestlé suggests that only 15% of the 3-MCPD may be released from the ester form by pancreatic lipase activity.
  • A direct approach to solving this analytical problem is being investigated by AOCS members. Potential collaborators should contact Richard Cantrill, Director of AOCS Technical Services. A draft of this method will soon be available.

Glycidyl Esters

A related process contaminant, glycidyl (glycidol) esters, has been reported. It was first thought this compound could be a precursor of 3-MCPD monoesters; however, this is unlikely from our understanding of the relevant chemistry. Glycidyl esters have been found in some oils, causing the temporary suspension of supply of these products to the marketplace.

Other Contaminants

Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids Chemical Contaminants in the Food Chain

 

Reference List Topics

 

AOCS Expert Panel on Process Contaminants

In December 2009, AOCS established an Expert Panel on Process Contaminants. The panel is initially focusing on two process contaminants - 3-monochloropropane-1,2-diol (3-MCPD) esters and glycidyl (glycidol) esters. 

Additional Meetings on Process Contaminants

Other meetings on 3-MCPD sponsored by EFL, ILSI, along with AOCS supported meetings such as World Conference on Oilseed Processing, Fats & Oils Processing, Biofuels & Applications.

AOCS in conjunction with ADM Research is seeking participants to compare results from the direct and indirect determination of MCPD-E and GE using reference samples of known composition. Interested collaborators should respond by 10 October 2012.

 

If you have comments or wish to contribute further information regarding 3-MCPD and glycidyl (glycidol) esters, please contact Richard Cantrill, Director, AOCS Technical Services.

Portions of this page have been developed by AOCS Technical Services in cooperation with ILSI Europe as a deliverable from the ILSI Europe Workshop on 3-MCPD Esters in Food Products, held February 5-6, 2009, in Brussels, as part of AOCS' commitment to help industry and our constituency develop the analytical tools and resources needed to meet this global challenge.