Precision Oils brings over 15 years of unparalleled experience in oil testing and quality assurance. Their dedicated team employs cutting-edge technology and deep industry knowledge to deliver accurate and reliable results, making them a trusted partner for oil analysis across various applications. Their SANAS-accredited laboratory ensures the highest standards of testing, meeting rigorous international benchmarks.
The lab offers a comprehensive range of services, including oil quality control, compliance testing, and specialized evaluations We offer the following analytical services.
Peroxide value measures the extent of oxidation in oils and fats, specifically indicating the number of peroxides and hydroperoxides present in the sample. These compounds are primary products of the oxidation process.
FFA/Acid Value – FFA/Acid Value are important parameters used to assess the quality and purity of oils and fats. The free fatty acids and acid value represent the hydrolytic deterioration of the oil or fat.
The anisidine value measurement is used to evaluate the oxidative degradation of oils, fats, and other lipid-containing products, representing the secondary measurement of the oxidation of unsaturated fats and oils.
The unsaponifiable material refers to the portion of fats, oils, or waxes that does not undergo the process of saponification when treated with an alkali (such as sodium hydroxide).
Saponification value measures the amount of alkali required to completely saponify a given quantity of fat or oil and is indicative of the chain length of fatty acids present in the oil or fat.
A Fatty acid profile is the composition of fatty acids present in a fat, oil, or lipid. It is a detailed breakdown of the different types of fatty acids, categorized by their chain length (number of carbon atoms) and the degree of saturation (the number of double bonds between carbon atoms). This analysis forms part of authenticity testing.
Iodine Value is a measurement of the degree of unsaturation in fats and oils.
Relative Density is the ratio of the density of the oil sample to the density of a reference substance, typically water for liquids and solids.
The Lovibond Tintometer quantifies colour intensity based on the red and yellow components, which are the most relevant for oil samples.
The Karl Fischer is used to measure the water content in oil samples. It is widely regarded as the gold standard for moisture analysis due to its accuracy and sensitivity.
Sterols are a subgroup of steroids with a hydroxyl group at the 3-position of the A-ring, and form part of authenticity testing.
Tocopherols and Tocotrienols are two subgroups of vitamin E, a group of fat-soluble antioxidants, which are used for quality and authenticity testing.
Refractive Index is defined as the ratio of the speed of light in a vacuum to the speed of light in the oil sample being measured
Alkaline Impurities refer to the presence of basic substances in an oil sample, often resulting from manufacturing processes, contamination, or degradation.
The presence of residual soap in oil can indicate incomplete refining, contamination, or improper processing, which can negatively impact the quality, safety, and usability of the oil.
The Cold Test is a method used to evaluate the cloud point or pour point of oils and fats to assess their low-temperature behaviour.
Insoluble Impurities method measures the solid particles or substances that do not dissolve in a particular solvent.
Moisture and Volatile Matter determines the moisture and any other material volatile under the conditions of the test.
Fat extraction method used for complex matrices.
Fat extraction method used for dry samples.
Slip/Melting Point determination are important thermal properties that describe the behaviour of oils and fats at different temperatures.
Polar compounds are a class of compounds found in oils and fats that are characterized by the presence of polar functional groups. These compounds are formed primarily through the oxidation of unsaturated fats and oils, particularly during processes like deep frying, storage, or refining.
The K values is a measurement of the oxidative stability of oils and fats. It is used primarily to assess the extent of oxidation in oils, particularly in vegetable oils and oils used in deep frying.
Lovibond PFXi Automated is a compulsory method for all Lovibond colour analysis. All Lovibond colour analysis and results are useful in the oil industry for quality control, classification, and ensuring consistency in the appearance of oils. The Lovibond colour measurements are important based on the fact that the colour of oils can be altered by factors such as processing conditions, refining, oxidation, and the presence of impurities.
Turnaround Times
Standard: 8 Working Days
Express: 4 Working Days (at an additional cost)*
Express: 2 Working Days (at an additional cost)*
Express: 1 Working Day (at an additional cost)*
Express services are subject to method choice and will be confirmed by laboratory staff
At Precision Oil Laboratories, we offer expert consultation services tailored to the Fats and Oils industry. Our focus is on enhancing the quality of oil at every stage of production, from raw materials to refined, bottled, or composite oil-containing products. Through our in-depth analysis and industry expertise, we help businesses optimize their processes and achieve superior product standards.
Training is available for the oil industry and is adapted according to the specific focus areas and background of the client. The aim of the training sessions are to supply the vegetable oil producers with sufficient information to improve the quality of oil production. Basic oil chemistry taught during the course gives the producer a thorough background of quality parameters and composition. The training enables oil producers to decide which analyses to request for their specific product. With the background knowledge gained during the training, producers are able to interpret the Certificate of analysis when results are received. Please contact us for further information regarding training.
Precision Oils has been SANAS (South African National Accreditation Service) accredited since February 2018 and take part in the Proficiency Testing Scheme of the American Oil Chemists’ Society as well as the German Society for Fat Science.
