Comparative Physicochemical Evaluation of Branded and Unbranded Vanaspati Ghee in Hyderabad, Sindh, and Its Implications for Human Health

Abstract

The current study carried out to evaluate main physicochemical quality indices for total twenty three samples of vanaspati ghee, including eight branded and fifteen unbranded products from local market of Hyderabad Sindh, Pakistan. Fundamental and essential parameters were assessed such as moisture content, free fatty acid (FFA), peroxide value (PV), iodine value (IV) and saponification value (SV) in addition to heavy metals Arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), nickel (Ni) and zinc (Zn). Branded vanaspati ghee samples showed consistent results with lower moisture, FFA, PV value and light color, however unbranded ghee samples indicated greater variability in the results including significantly higher moisture content up to 0.205%, elevated FFA level up to 0.612% and variable SV and IV. This variation might be due to improper processing conditions, inconsistent hydrogenation and due to possible adulteration with other raw oils. Additionally, higher levels of Zn, Cu, Cd and Pb were observed in some unbranded samples suggesting the possible contamination risks. Generally, the results underscore the need for stricter quality control, adherence to regulatory standards and enforcement of food safety regulations are essential to minimize contamination risks and protect consumer health.