Vol. 11, Issue 12 (2022)

Author(s):
Cariappa MB, Vishnuvardhana, KB Hebbar, SV Ramesh, Venkatesh J, GS Chikkanna, BN Maruthi Prasad and BS Harish

Abstract:
Substantiation of virgin coconut oil (VCO) is crucial for consumer protection. Using physical factors in conjunction with multiple linear regression models, an investigation was carried out to distinguished VCO from coconut oil (CO), palm oil (PO), and liquid paraffin. Various oil blends of VCO:PO, VCO:CO (both in 10% increments), VCO:CO:PO, VCO: liquid paraffin, and CO: liquid paraffin were created. The physical qualities of oil blends were tested, and the data was statistically analysed. Physical qualities such as colour, refractive index, smoke point, turbidity, and viscosity were persuasive in distinguishing the oil samples at different levels of adulteration. Even with as little as 10% adulteration, samples could be categorised. Multiple regression analysis produced predictive equation models with a high coefficient of determination (R²) which could aid in the quantification of adulteration. As a result, this investigation revealed the usefulness of assessing physical features and their efficiency in discerning VCO from probable adulterants such as PO, CO, and liquid paraffin.