Conjugated Linoleic Acid Production and Optimization Via Catalytic Reaction Method Using Safflower Oil

Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is one of the most physiological active fatty acids due to its positive effect on prevention of diseases such as obesity, hyperlipidemia, atherosclerosis and cancer. The aim of this study was to optimize the production of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA)% in alkali isomerization of safflower oil including 71% linoleic acid (LA) using response surface methodology (RSM). The effect of three reaction variables such as temperature, reaction time and amount of KOH on CLA production was investigated using design-expert software. The optimal condition determined at this point, 72% total CLA with the yield of 84% temperature reaction time and the amount of KOH were 187.6 ºC, 2.12 h 48.7 g; respectively. Further results indicate that just two reaction parameters including temperature and the amount of catalyst have significant effects on CLA production %; however,the reaction time showed negligible impact on CLA production.