Structured Lipids: A Unique Designer Lipid

Abstract

Structured lipids (SLs) generally refer to any fats that are modified or restructured from natural oils and fats or fatty acids primarily containing short or medium chain fatty acids and preferably essential fatty acids. The function and properties of structured lipids depend on the type of fatty acids moieties present and the position of their attachment to the backbone. Availability of SLs tightly relates to the new discoveries and collection of evidence in nutritional and functional studies. Production of SLs can be done by either chemical or enzymatic inter-esterification or synthesis depending on what products are needed. Randomized SLs can be produced by both methods. However, SLs with defined structures can only be produced by the enzymatic method with specific lipases. On the other hand, functions of SLs with respect to the consideration of medium chain fatty acids or PUFA have gained wide recognition. A number of products, largely with randomized structure, are available for different applications. SLs have potential applications in the delivery of energy and PUFA to persons suffering from malabsorption. Academic research has demonstrated a number of potential aspects from nutritional or biochemical points of view. With the potential perspectives in mind, technological development has already made the possibility of SL synthesis into production level with reasonably acceptable product standards.

Keywords: Lipids, fatty acids, malabsorption, triacylglycerols

Cite this Article

Harini Venugopal, Ramachandra Rao HG, Arun Kumar H. Structured Lipids: A Unique Designer Lipid. Research & Reviews: Journal of Dairy Science and Technology. 2016; 5(2): 30–39p.