Inter-Esterification

Process Description

Interesterification can be defined as the rearrangement of fatty acids position in different TAG molecules on the glycerol backbone; it is also known as ester-ester interchange.

IE helps Stabilize and Increase the amounts of crystals which are needed for a Smooth Texture and Functional Properties, and products are free from trans fatty acids. A Softer product with a Lower Melting Point and Without Phase Separation can be produced by IE.

IE is used to modify fats in the following ways:

1) Change the Overall Melting Profile

2) Improve the Compatibility of the triglycerides in the solid state.

3) Improve the Plasticity of the resulting solid by changing the Crystallization Properties

4) Combine the properties of Mixed Oils and Fats

5) IE can also be used to produce a Waxy Translucent Fat for coating purposes.

6) IE blends soft oils with hard fats to a desired Functionality and Consistency

7) By combining IE and other modification processes, many products such as shortenings, margarines, and vegetable ghee with Low Trans Fat or No Trans Fat at all can be formulated.

8) Satisfactory quality of Confectionery Fats can be produced.