Optimizing the simultaneous effect of change in bleaching parameters on the quality of sunflower oil using response surface methodology (RSM)

In edible oil refining, the bleaching treatment is a essential step. The adsorbents used for bleaching can remove pigments and other impurities, such as soap, trace metals, phospholipids, and oxidation products. The removal of these impurities improves the sensory quality and the oxidative stability of the deodorized oil.Considering the importance of bleaching in edible oil purification, in this research sunflower oil was selected and the effect of bleaching on chemical properties in order to optimization the process was investigated. For this matter, the effect of time (15, 25, 35, 45, and 55 min), temperature (80, 90, 100, 110, and 120˚C), and concentration of bleaching clay (0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1, and 1.2%) using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) in 5 levels by CCD method have been studied with the aim of reduction in bleaching clay consumption. Chemical tests were carotenoid, sterol, tocopherol, heavy metals. Results indicated that the best situation in corn oil was time 39.18min, temperature 103.85˚C, and concentration of bleaching clay 94% that meet 57% of our desirable demands. Practical results showed no significant difference between software suggestions and practical data.