Effect of fish (Catla catla) frying on the quality characteristics of sunflower oil

The quality of sunflower oil, as affected by fish (Catla catla) frying at 180 °C for 14 h was investigated. The purpose of the study was to find out the quality deterioration of sunflower oil with respect to time as affected by fish frying and to generate equations that can be used for predicting the quality parameters. The physico-chemical characteristics of sunflower oil were evaluated by drawing out the oil samples (75 ml) from the fryer at an interval of 2 h. The parameters evaluated were refractive index, colour, total polar material, free fatty acids, iodine value and peroxide value. There was a gradual increase in refractive index and colour with time of frying which was found to be significant (P < 0.05) in the latter. Iodine value decreased significantly (P < 0.05) with time of frying. Peroxide value first increased up to 12 h of frying and then decreased. After 10 h of frying, the total polar materials were 26.9%, indicating the need for replenishment or refinement of sunflower oil. Total polar material correlated well (r > 0.97) with colour, free fatty acids, peroxide value and time of frying. Free fatty acids correlated well (r > 0.96) with colour, total polar material and duration of frying. Fit of the equations was determined for total polar material and free fatty acids as a function of the respective correlated parameters.