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Are you worried about the high calorific value of the vegetable oils you consume? You may probably end your worries now, as Hyderabad-based scientists have synthesized novel low-calorie fats. Studies have also revealed similarity in thermo-physical properties between the newly synthesized fats and bakery fats.

The Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT), Hyderabad, scientists developed new low-calorie fats based on edible oils such as sunflower. The novel fats provide 5.2 K cals/g as in opposition to 9 K cals/g by the vegetable oils. Promising benefits were observed when studies were conducted in rabbits and rats.

Nutritionally improved synthesized fats

The trans-free synthesized fats are nutritionally improved with the potential to be used as frying oil and to replace bakery fats, says Head of Centre for Lipid Research, IICT, Dr. R.B.N. Prasad. Studies in rats revealed that fats are able lower serum, liver cholesterol and triglycerides and reduction of fat accumulation is seen in rabbits.

Mr Prasad said that they collaborated with the Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysuru, to study the utility of these novel fats in confectionary products. While the collaborative studies with National Institute of Nutrition validated its safety.
“Basically, we have proved the concept and the technology is ready for commercialisation,” he added.

How are these low-calorie fats developed?

Ethyl behenic acid was incorporated into refined sunflower and soybean oils to prepare these novel low-calorie fats. Before incorporation, around 25% per cent of fatty acids were removed in sunflower and soybean oils.

Health benefits of novel low-calorie fats

The non-toxic low calorie fat reduced serum and liver lipids, DL cholesterol and triglycerides, at the same time maintaining essential fatty acids. Lipid accumulation in arteries was prevented in rabbits. Besides absence of trans fatty acids, the low-calorie-based biscuits showed no major difference in the quality and sensory parameters when compared to bakery biscuits.

-Sumana