The first stage of refining of post-fermentation corn oil with a high content of free fatty acids and phytosterols – Comparison of neutralisation by an ion-exchange resin without solvent and base neutralisation

Edible corn oil: A holistic exploration from processing to market dynamics

“…Neutralization or deacidification is a pivotal step aimed at reducing acidity by treating the oil with an alkaline substance, typically sodium hydroxide. [ 5 ] The concentration of the alkaline solution added in this process is dependent on the initial free fatty acid content present in the oil. The presence of these free fatty acids, leading to a high acid number, compromises oil quality by favoring its oxidation.…”

“…Bleaching involves the use of natural or acid‐activated bleaching clays to absorb pigments, traces of metals, and remaining impurities in the oil. [ 5 ] It also facilitates the removal of lipid hydroperoxides, phospholipids, residual soaps, trace metal ions, and other contaminants. [ 47 ] It was reported that activated carbon exhibited superior adsorption capacity compared to the other adsorbents (zeolite, diatomite, attapulgite, perlite, and montmorillonite), achieving a high removal rate of zearalenone, exceeding 83% from heavily polluted corn oil.…”

“…[ 4 ] Oil extraction before fermentation follows similar steps as starch industry, but post‐fermentation (the back‐end extraction process) poses additional challenges. [ 5 ] In post‐fermentation, substantial amounts of oil can be recovered from thin stillage (around 2%–3% oil) and dried distillers’ grains (8%–10% of oil). [ 6 ] With advancements in process technologies, modern corn biorefineries have achieved an impressive over 80% recovery of post‐fermentation corn oil.…”