Heating effects on some quality characteristics of date seed oil

Effects of heating on some quality characteristics of date seed oil from two cultivars (Deglet Nour and Allig) has been investigated using an accelerated test in a Rancimat system. Fatty acid, viscosity, absorptivity at 232 and 270 nm, colour and total melting enthalpy of Deglet Nour seed oil were less changed compared to that of Allig seed oil, because the former contained a higher amount of total phenolic compounds (526 mug/g against 215 mug/g) and a lower content of unsaturated fatty acids. Viscosity and absorptivity at 232 nm and at 270 nm increased rapidly after reaching the oxidation induction time. Differential scanning calorimetry melting profiles of date seed oils were also changed after heating in the Rancimat. Melting enthalpies seemed to be constant during the initial stages of Rancimat treatment and then reduced after the induction time was reached. The obtained data shows that date seed oils were resistant to thermal treatment during a long period (similar to30-40 h). This may indicate that they could bear thermal treatments that could be applied in refining procedures or in culinary treatments such as frying and cooking conditions. We could also expect that they may have a good shelf life. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved