Abstract
Oleogelation offers the possibility to reduce the saturated fatty acid
(SAFA) content while maintaining the desired organoleptic properties.
Hereby, SAFA are replaced by other structurants which can create a
three-dimensional network that immobilizes the liquid oil. Depending on
the type of structurants, different structuring routes are identified.
The use of monoglycerides (MAGs) as structurants is a promising approach
thanks to their great self-assembling properties. However,
implementation into the food industry is still hampered due to
insufficient characterization. This research includes a multiscale
analysis of two dynamically produced MAG-based oleogels as a function of
the storage time (up to 8 weeks). Slight differences in the production
process resulted in differences in techno-functional properties between
the MAG-based oleogels MO1 and MO2. MO1 consisted of larger crystals,
which resulted in a lower rigidity, lower stability and lower oil
binding capacity compared to the other oleogel (MO2). On the nanoscale,
it was found that the crystal nanoplatelets (CNPs) of MO1 contained a
higher number of lamellae compared to the MO2. Additionally, the results
obtained with ultra-small angle X-ray scattering indicated a larger
equivalent diameter for the CNPs of MO1. As a function of the storage
time, both oleogels did not show major structural changes up to 8 weeks
of storage.