The Importance of Analysis of Water Content and Free Fatty Acids

Oct 13, 2025 by leolavanderia.com.br 130 views

Introduction

In recent years, the demand for high-quality Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) has increased significantly due to its numerous health benefits and versatility in various applications. However, ensuring the quality of VCO is crucial to maintain its shelf life, stability, and nutritional value. One of the key factors in determining the quality of VCO is the analysis of its moisture content, free fatty acid content, and levels of peroxide numbers. This study aims to analyze the water content, free fatty acid levels, and levels of peroxide numbers in VCO samples obtained from the Helvetia Sakinah Pharmacy using gravimetric and tritimetric methods.

The Importance of Analysis of Water Content and Free Fatty Acids

Water Content: A Critical Factor in VCO Quality

Analysis of water content is a crucial step in determining the quality of VCO. Water content that is too high can cause product damage, reduce shelf life, and increase the risk of microbial growth. The ideal water content for VCO should be below 0.2%. In this study, the water content in the VCO sample was recorded at 0.12%, indicating that the product has good quality. The results of this study demonstrate the importance of analyzing water content in VCO to ensure its quality and stability.

Free Fatty Acid Levels: An Indicator of Oil Quality

Free fatty acid levels are also an important indicator in assessing the quality of oil. The higher the level of free fatty acids, the lower the quality of the oil. Free fatty acid levels below 1% indicate that the VCO of the Sakinah Helvetia pharmacy is still in the good category. In this study, the level of free fatty acids found was 0.81%, which is within the acceptable limit. This result suggests that the VCO from Sakinah Helvetia pharmacy has good quality and can be recommended as a high-quality product.

Peroxide Number and VCO Stability Level

Peroxide Number: A Parameter for Assessing Oxidation Level

Levels of peroxide numbers are parameters used to assess the oxidation level of oil. The low peroxide value indicates that the oil is still fresh and stable. With a level of peroxide number only 1.59%, this VCO is classified in a good category and shows that the product still has optimal freshness. The results of this study demonstrate the importance of analyzing peroxide numbers in VCO to ensure its stability and quality.

Methodology

In this study, the gravimetric method was used to determine the water content and free fatty acid levels, while the tritimetric method was used to measure the level of peroxide numbers. The VCO samples were obtained from the Helvetia Sakinah Pharmacy, and the analysis was conducted in accordance with the National Standardization Agency (SNI) 7381: 2008 for agricultural products, especially VCO.

Results and Discussion

The results of the analysis conducted in this study are presented in the following table:

Parameter	Result
Water Content	0.12%
Free Fatty Acid Levels	0.81%
Peroxide Number	1.59%

The results of this study indicate that the water content, free fatty acid content, and peroxide number levels from the VCO sample do not exceed the maximum limit set by the National Standardization Agency (SNI) 7381: 2008 for agricultural products, especially VCO. The water content of 0.12% is within the acceptable limit, indicating that the product has good quality. The free fatty acid levels of 0.81% are also within the acceptable limit, suggesting that the VCO from Sakinah Helvetia pharmacy has good quality. The peroxide number of 1.59% indicates that the oil is still fresh and stable.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the analysis results show that the VCO from Sakinah Helvetia pharmacy meets the standards set by SNI. With water content, free fatty acid content, and levels of peroxide numbers that are within safe limits, this VCO can be recommended as a high-quality product. This study provides important information for consumers in choosing safe and quality VCO products, and is a reference for producers in maintaining the quality standards of their products.

Recommendations

Based on the results of this study, the following recommendations can be made:

The VCO from Sakinah Helvetia pharmacy can be recommended as a high-quality product.
Consumers should choose VCO products that meet the standards set by SNI.
Producers should maintain the quality standards of their products by analyzing water content, free fatty acid levels, and peroxide numbers.

Limitations of the Study

This study has some limitations that should be noted. The sample size was limited to one VCO sample obtained from the Helvetia Sakinah Pharmacy. Future studies should aim to analyze a larger sample size to ensure the reliability of the results. Additionally, the study only analyzed the water content, free fatty acid levels, and peroxide numbers in VCO. Future studies should aim to analyze other parameters that can affect the quality of VCO.

Future Directions

Future studies should aim to analyze the water content, free fatty acid levels, and peroxide numbers in VCO samples obtained from different sources. Additionally, future studies should aim to analyze other parameters that can affect the quality of VCO, such as the presence of contaminants and the level of oxidation. By analyzing these parameters, producers can ensure the quality and stability of their VCO products, and consumers can make informed choices when choosing VCO products.

Introduction

In our previous article, we discussed the analysis of moisture content, free fatty acid content, and levels of peroxide numbers in VCO (Virgin Coconut Oil) from the Helvetia Sakinah Pharmacy. In this article, we will answer some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about VCO analysis.

Q: What is the importance of analyzing water content in VCO?

A: Analyzing water content is crucial in determining the quality of VCO. Water content that is too high can cause product damage, reduce shelf life, and increase the risk of microbial growth. The ideal water content for VCO should be below 0.2%.

Q: What is the significance of free fatty acid levels in VCO?

A: Free fatty acid levels are an important indicator in assessing the quality of oil. The higher the level of free fatty acids, the lower the quality of the oil. Free fatty acid levels below 1% indicate that the VCO of the Sakinah Helvetia pharmacy is still in the good category.

Q: What is the role of peroxide number in assessing the oxidation level of oil?

A: Levels of peroxide numbers are parameters used to assess the oxidation level of oil. The low peroxide value indicates that the oil is still fresh and stable. With a level of peroxide number only 1.59%, this VCO is classified in a good category and shows that the product still has optimal freshness.

Q: How can I ensure the quality of VCO products?

A: To ensure the quality of VCO products, you should choose products that meet the standards set by the National Standardization Agency (SNI) 7381: 2008 for agricultural products, especially VCO. You should also check the water content, free fatty acid levels, and peroxide numbers of the product.

Q: What are the benefits of using VCO with good quality?

A: Using VCO with good quality can provide several benefits, including:

Improved shelf life
Reduced risk of microbial growth
Better nutritional value
Improved stability and freshness

Q: Can I use VCO with high water content?

A: No, it is not recommended to use VCO with high water content. Water content that is too high can cause product damage, reduce shelf life, and increase the risk of microbial growth.

Q: How can I store VCO to maintain its quality?

A: To maintain the quality of VCO, you should store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. You should also keep the container tightly sealed to prevent contamination and oxidation.

Q: Can I use VCO for cooking and baking?

A: Yes, VCO can be used for cooking and baking. However, you should note that VCO has a high smoke point, which makes it suitable for high-heat cooking. You should also be aware that VCO can become rancid if not stored properly.

Q: Are there any side effects of using VCO?

A: Generally, VCO is considered safe for consumption. However, some people may experience side effects such as digestive issues or allergic reactions. If you experience any side effects, you should consult with a healthcare professional.

Conclusion

In conclusion, VCO analysis is an important step in ensuring the quality and stability of VCO products. By understanding the importance of analyzing water content, free fatty acid levels, and peroxide numbers, you can make informed choices when choosing VCO products. We hope that this FAQ article has provided you with valuable information about VCO analysis.