Comparative studies on physicochemical properties of virgin coconut oil (VCO) with different coconut oils

Abstract

This study aims to compare the physicochemical properties of Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO), Refined, Bleached and Deodorized (RBD) oil and Cold Pressed Oil (CPO, Chekku oil). The physicochemical properties taken for the study includes moisture content, refractive index, saponification value, iodine value, acid value, unsaponifiable matter, polenske value and % free fatty acids. The physicochemical properties of all three samples obtained are in compliance with Asian and Pacific Coconut Community (APCC) standards. Of all the samples, VCO showed 1.3% FFA which was higher when compared, that it should be consumed only to a certain limit for cooking. VCO has very low moisture content of 0.11% where the shelf life of oil can be naturally preserved. The acid value of VCO was 2.7 mg KOH/g which has the highest amount of AV whereas for other samples it was less than 1.0 mg KOH/g. These findings can be used for chemical analysis and adulteration detection.