Application of pilot‐scale molecular distillation for enrichment of phytonutrients from a novel deodorizer distillate of the margarine and shortenings industry

Abstract Background A wiped‐film molecular distillation (WFMD) pilot plant was used to evaluate process conditions for enriching phytonutrients (PN) from a novel vegetable oil deodorizer distillate (VODD) of the margarine and shortenings industry. This byproduct results from the incorporation of new blends of vegetable oils, such as soybean and palm oil, making it of interest due to its distinct chemical composition and matrix, which differ from those of deodorizer distillates studied previously. The significance of the present investigation is related to the properties of the oil blend, requiring the establishment of new process conditions for this specific VODD. Experimental design was used to evaluate the WFMD process variables, with the aim of removing free fatty acids and enabling eight PN to be concentrated in the reprocessing stages. Results The product obtained after three WFMD stages presented a fivefold increase in the total PN concentration, compared to the raw material. Notably, the procedure provided enrichment ratios of 7.2‐fold for total tocopherols (including α ‐, β ‐, λ ‐ and δ ‐tocopherols), 4.5‐fold for total phytosterols (including campesterol, stigmasterol and β ‐sitosterol) and 1.2‐fold for squalene, together with a deacidification efficiency of 78.93%. Conclusion The proposed process provided significant concentration gains for all eight PN evaluated, resulting in a value‐added product. These excellent results were achieved using only three WFMD stages, without any need for additional processing steps. The data obtained at the pilot scale provide valuable insights for predicting the scalability of the process and facilitating potential industrial implementation. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.