Enzyme catalyzed synthesis of low calorie triglycerides

Acidolysis reaction of triolein with caprylic and palmitic acids was performed using immobilized sn-1,3 specific lipase from Mucor miehei to produce a reduced calorie spreadable structured lipid (SL).Response surface methodology was applied to model and optimize the reaction conditions using a four factor five level central composite rotatable design. The selected factors were time (10-24 h), enzyme load (10-25 wt%), substrate mole ratio (Triolein:Caprylic acid:Palmitic acid), (1:1:1-1:2.5:2.5) and temperature (45-60°C). Best-fitting models were successfully established for the produced triacylglycerols (R2=0.92-0.96) and residual triolein (R2=0.95) established by multiple regressions with backward elimination.The produced SLs were compared to fat extracts of commercial soft and hard margarines in terms of melting pro ? le and solid fat content (SFC). The caloric values of produced structured lipids were determined using mathematical equations. SL with a melting peak of 42°C and SFC of 40.69% at 0°C was found very similar to soft margarines. The caloric value of this SL was determined as 37.74 kJ/g, theoretically. The optimum reaction conditions were found as reaction time 14 h; substrate mole ratio 1:2.1:2.1; temperature 58°C; and enzyme load 15 wt%. Under these optimum conditions, the product contained 29.68% COC, 25.47% POC, and 3.80% POP.The results of this system revealed that it is possible to produce a reduced calorie spreadable fat from vegetable oils rich in triolein.