Metal inactivation in edible oils by carboxymethylmercapto succinic acid

Abstract

SummaryCarboxymethylmercapto succinic acid was one of the most effective metal inactivators examined for use in glyceride oils. The effectiveness is based on oxidative A.O.M. peroxide tests and on the organoleptic evaluation of various types of oils and shortenings. Indexes as high as 80‐fold have been observed in preventing peroxide development. Extensive taste panel evaluations have shown significant improvements in the initial flavor and flavor stability of oils and shortenings treated with this mercapto acid. Indications are that the material has an extremely low order of toxicity. Acute tests have shown that the toxicity of the sodium salt is less than that of sodium citrate.The thermal instability to withstand deodorization temperatures and the possibility of the development of a mercaptan odor and taste in oils subjected to a high temperature is a serious disadvantage. Under some conditions the low order of fat solubility and the poisoning of hydrogenation catalyst would be detrimental in some oil‐processing operations.Carboxymethylmercapto succinic acid and its derivatives may find use in salad oils, special hydrogenated oils for candy, icing, etc., vitamin preparations, drugs, and similar products where excellent trace metal‐inactivating properties are required and where exposure to high temperatures is not encountered.