Rapid analysis of triacylglycerols using high-performance liquid chromatography with light scattering detection.

This paper details a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method for the separation of triacylglycerols, using a 3-micron, 15 cm x 4.6 mm I.D. Spherisorb ODS column and gradient elution with dichloromethane and acetonitrile. The triacylglycerols are detected using a light scattering detector (mass detector). Separations of a number of different edible oils and fats are reported. The procedure offers a possible method for determining cocoa butter equivalents and the adulteration of edible oils and fats by other non-generic fats and oils.