Occurrence of C15-C45 mineral paraffins in olives and olive oils.

Different classes of olive oils and other olive samples (olives, olive paste and olive pomace) collected during their production were analysed for mineral paraffins in the range of C(15)-C(45). None of the 22 extra virgin olive oils contained mineral paraffins above the detection limit of 1 mg kg(-1). Also, lampante virgin olive oil from the olive mill showed no detectable amounts, but olive oil from the market contained 6-30 mg kg(-1).

Contamination of animal feed and food from animal origin with mineral oil hydrocarbons.

Oils and fats used for the production of animal feed can become contaminated with mineral oil material originating from gas oils (C18-C35) or synthetic oils (poly-alpha olefins, C25 to beyond C45). An important cause is assumed to be the discharge of waste oils, such as motor oil and hydraulic oils. Mineral oil material was analysed by on-line LC-GC-FID directly in the fat or in a raw extract from animal feed or foodstuffs.

Gravimetric method for the determination of insoluble and soluble dietary fibres.

The present paper describes a simple method for the determination of the insoluble and soluble dietary fibres in food. In a first step, starch and proteins are removed by enzyme treatment. The insoluble dietary fibres are determined gravimetrically after centrifugation and washing of the residue with water, ethanol, acetone and diethyl ether.