ПОРІВНЯЛЬНА ОЦІНКА ЯКОСТІ СОНЯШНИКОВОЇ ОЛІЇ

Abstract

Comparative assessment enables consumers to make an informed choice and use high-quality and safe sunflower oil, which has a positive effect on their health and economic well-being. Vegetable oils, especially sunflower, are a popular source of dietary fat in economically developed countries, promoting heart and brain health. They contain essential fatty acids useful for cell growth and brain development. Sunflower oil is also the most widespread type of vegetable oil in Ukraine. A healthy lifestyle requires quality food. The issue ofassessing the quality of sunflower oil is timely and relevant. The purpose of our research was to assess the quality of sunflower oil samples of leading producers in accordance with the requirements of current regulatory documentation and the declared labeling.Based on the survey, it was determined which types of sunflower oil are preferred by consumers. These samples were chosen as research objects. At the first stage of the research, the appearance of the package and the quality of the information provided on the label were evaluated. Then the quality of the samples was assessed according to organoleptic and physicochemical parameters.The assessment of the labeling and quality of sunflower oil showed that the information on the labels meets the requirements for mandatory information about the food product.The organoleptic characteristics of the oil samples meet the requirements of the State Standard of Ukraine 4492 "Sunflower oil. Specifications".Some samples have an increased moistureand volatile content, which can affect the stability and quality of the product during storage. However, the iodine value of all samples is within acceptable limits. Acid and peroxide numbers also do not exceed the established norms. The results of the research can be useful both for consumers when choosing high-quality oil, and for producers in order to improve product quality.