INFORM May 2026

inform May 2026 Volume 37 (5)

NEW METHODS FOR RESIDUAL HEXANE

MISANALYZED MICROPLASTICS

UNIQUE LIPID SOURCES

NEW AOCS PRESIDENT

Copyright INFORM 3

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AOCS MISSION STATEMENT AOCS advances the science and technology of oils, fats, proteins, surfactants, and related materials, enriching the lives of people everywhere. inform International News on Fats, Oils, and Related Materials ISSN: 1528-9303 IFRMEC 34 (4) Copyright © 2013 AOCS Press

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EDITORIAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Julian Barnes Etienne Guillocheau Jerry King

Gary List Thaís Lomônaco Raj Shah

Ryan Stoklosa Ignacio Vieitez Bryan Yeh

AOCS OFFICERS PRESIDENT: Fabiola Dionisi, Societe’ Des Produits Nestlé - Nestlé Research, Lausanne, Vaud, Switzerland VICE PRESIDENT: Roger Nahas, Kalsec, Kalamazoo, Michigan, USA TREASURER: Bryan Yeh, Canary Bio, Inc., Walnut Creek, California, USA SECRETARY: Rick Theiner, Evonik Corporation, Richmond, Virginia, USA PAST PRESIDENT: Gerard Baillely, Procter & Gamble, Mason, Ohio, USA

AOCS STAFF EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Rebecca Guenard MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR: Travis Skodack PAGE LAYOUT: Moon Design

The views expressed in contributed and reprinted articles are those of the expert authors and are not official positions of AOCS. Some articles may be written using an AI companion.

ADVERTISING INDEX * CPM Crown................................................................................................................ C4 * French Oil Mill Machinery Co. .......................................................................11 * Desmet NV...................................................................................................................C2 * Oil-Dri Corp of America..................................................................................C3

* Corporate member of AOCS who supports the Society through corporate membership dues.

4 INFORM MAY 2026, VOL. 37, NO. 5

THIS MONTH IN INFORM

12 2026-2027 AOCS GOVERNING BOARD ROSTER AND AOCS DIVISION LEADERSHIP TEAM MEMBERS

6 ANALYTICAL DIVISION SPOTLIGHTS The 2026 Dutton Awardee, Fang Wei, and Student Excellence Awardee, Flavia Dos Santos 10 FROM THE FRYER TO THE WIRE: ENHANCING LABORATORY CONFIDENCE AND PERFORMANCE THROUGH AOCS SOLUTIONS The American Oil Chemists’ Quality Reference Materials are derived from additional samples within the AOCS Laboratory Proficiency Program and are designed to support ongoing internal performance monitoring.

14 On the Cover UPDATING ANALYTICAL METHODS FOR MEASURING RESIDUAL HEXANE

Hexane analysis methods were last updated 20 years ago and are currently limited to quantification thresholds of one ppm for oil and 50 ppm for feed meal. With recent changes in hexane’s regulation in Europe and a focus on seed oil safety in the US, is it time to update to a more sensitive hexane analysis method?

Table of Contents INFORM 5

20 DISCOVERING NEW LIPID SOURCES WITH POTENTIAL HEALTH BENEFITS FROM DIETARY FOODS A research team set out to discover new lipid metabolites from untapped food sources. Their analysis revealed hundreds of molecules from unique sources, including lipids that had not been previously identified. Read about where and how they unearthed this trove of lipids.

27 MEET AOCS’

NEXT PRESIDENT: FABIOLA DIONISI

Incoming AOCS President Fabiola Dionisi reflects on a 30-year career at Nestlé Research devoted to the science and innovation of fats and oils. An AOCS Fellow since 2024, she brings a forward-looking vision to her presidency. Read more about her vision for the future of AOCS in this article. 30 REGULATORY REVIEW US rescinds finding that established policy on greenhouse gas emissions 32 EXTRACTS & DISTILLATES Analytical articles picked by researchers

24 STUDY REVEALS LAB GLOVES MAY BE SKEWING MICROPLASTICS DATA Residue from nitrile or latex gloves may unintentionally contaminate lab equipment scientists use to measure microplastics in air, water and other samples with non-plastic particles called stearates.

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ANALYTICAL DIVISION SPOTLIGHTS The Analytical Division promotes professional interest, communication, and expert competency in the analytical chemistry function of lipid molecules, and establishing rigorous analytical methods that are trusted by the global scientific community. This

field. Congratulations to the 2026 Herbert J. Dutton Awardee, Dr. Fang Wei and the Student Excellence Awardee, Flavia Adais Rocha dos Santos. The Herbert J. Dutton Award recognizes an individual who has made significant contributions to the analysis of fats, oils and related products. The Analytical Division Student Excellence Award recognizes graduate students presenting an outstanding oral or poster presentations within the Analytical technical program at the AOCS Annual Meeting. THE 2026 DUTTON AWARDEE INFORM: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A CAREER IN ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY, PARTICULARLY WITHIN THE OILS AND FATS INDUSTRY? Wei: My dedication to analytical chemistry, particularly within the oils and fats industry, stems from a passion for exploring the essence of the microscopic world of matter and a sense of mission to translate foundational research into tangible value. Through techniques like mass spectrometry and chromatography, I am committed to unveiling the invisible structure and

not only satisfies my curiosity about the “invisible” but also fundamentally drives the industry’s progress—from the source to the table, providing solid theoretical and technological support for cultivating better oilseed crops and producing healthier oils, ultimately serving the goal of producing and consuming more, better oil. INFORM: CAN YOU DESCRIBE A CHALLENGING ANALYTICAL PROBLEM AND HOW YOU SOLVED IT? Wei: One of my most challenging projects involved deciphering the molecular structure of oxidized lipids in edible oils. The complexity stems from the hundreds to thousands of similar isomers formed during oxidation, which traditional methods like measuring “peroxide value” cannot precisely identify— much like seeing smoke but not the specific chemicals within it. The breakthrough came from revisiting the fundamentals of lipid chemistry and innovating in sample preparation and instrumentation. We developed strategies such as chemical derivatization to “tag” key functional groups, enabling mass spectrometry to sensitively detect and

FANG WEI Professor in the Oil Crops Research Institute (OCRI) at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS).

Joined AOCS: 2024

AOCS UPDATES | INFORM | 7

distinguish previously invisible isomers. This allowed us to pinpoint specific oxidation products, linking them directly to impacts on flavor, nutrition, and safety—ultimately providing a new toolkit for quality control. INFORM: WHAT IS YOUR OPINION ON DATA SCIENCE OR AI-DRIVEN ANALYTICS AND THE FUTURE OF LIPID ANALYSIS? Wei: I firmly believe that data science and AI driven analytics are the pivotal catalysts for the next leap in lipid analysis. The immense complexity of lipids—encompassing thousands of molecular species, subtle isomers, and intricate dynamic changes— has pushed traditional data processing to its limits. The integration of AI and machine learning empowers us to decode this complexity with unprecedented depth and efficiency. Beyond simply identifying and quantifying lipids, these tools enable predictive modeling, pattern discovery, and intelligent annotation, turning vast datasets into actionable scientific insight. In practice, this means moving from merely describing lipid profiles to forecasting oxidation pathways, predicting nutritional or functional outcomes, and optimizing processing conditions. Ultimately, the synergy of

analytical chemistry and data intelligence will accelerate our journey towards truly predictive, precise, and personalized lipid science. INFORM: WHAT ROLE HAS COLLABORATION PLAYED IN ADVANCING YOUR WORK? Wei: My direct involvement as an associate editor for the Journal of the American Oil Chemists’ Society has connected me deeply with a global network of peers, industry leaders, and early career scientists. This ongoing exchange does more than just keep me updated and creates pathways for translating lab innovations into practical tools. Ultimately, AOCS turns individual research into shared progress, ensuring that our scientific contributions deliver tangible impact across the entire oils and fats community. INFORM: HOW DO INTERDISCIPLINARY PARTNERSHIPS ENHANCE ANALYTICAL RESEARCH OUTCOMES? Wei: Interdisciplinary partnerships are essential, as they transform analytical chemistry from a tool into a solution-oriented engine. My role is to provide precise methods to “see” molecular details—such as lipid profiles or metabolic pathways. But it is collaboration with experts in fields like nutrition, plant

science, and bioinformatics that clarifies what to analyze and why it matters. Their questions drive the development of new assays and methods, while our data in turn validates hypotheses and informs decisions. This two-way exchange ensures our science is both rigorous and relevant, turning data into insights that connect the lab, the field, and real-world application. INFORM: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU OFFER TO YOUNG PROFESSIONALS AIMING TO MAKE MEANINGFUL CONTRIBUTIONS IN LIPID ANALYSIS? Wei: My advice is to master the fundamentals while embracing the frontiers. Build a solid foundation in analytical chemistry and lipid biochemistry—this hands-on, principled understanding is essential. Then, actively work across disciplines: partner with biologists, data scientists, and engineers, and always link your analytical questions to real world impacts like food quality, nutrition, or sustainability. Stay curious, be persistent in refining methods, and don’t hesitate to bring your unique perspective—it could unlock the next breakthrough.

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STUDENT EXCELLENCE AWARDEE

identifying and quantifying substances in order to understand systems and reactions. So, there is a certain beauty behind analytical science. I was so passionate about this area that I became an analytical chemistry tutor while still in high school. Later, I earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and gained experience in microbiology, electrochemistry, and organic chemistry. Throughout my academic journey, I have always used both traditional analytic methods, like titration, and instrumental techniques, such as spectroscopy, INFORM: WHAT IS THE PRIMARY FOCUS OF YOUR CURRENT RESEARCH, AND WHAT ASPECTS OF THIS WORK DO YOU FIND MOST EXCITING? Dos Santos: My research focuses on the development of food-grade nanodelivery systems for encapsulation of hydrophilic and hydrophobic bioactives peptides. These peptides are known for several biological activities, such as antihypertensive and antidiabetic effects. However, even if you have these powerful molecules, it is not always easy to incorporate them into food systems, and sometimes they degrade before they can do their job. What excites me is being able to develop a system that could realistically be applied in food products and actually bring benefits to society.

INFORM: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO JOIN AOCS, AND WHAT VALUE HAVE YOU FOUND IN BEING PART OF THE ANALYTICAL DIVISION? Dos Santos: Although I knew professional societies existed, I did not realize that, as a student, I could actually get involved in so many activities. My supervisor emphasized the importance of joining professional associations such as AOCS. So, I joined AOCS in 2024, but I only started getting truly involved last year. Since then, one of the most meaningful parts of the experience for me has been connecting with specialists and learning from the webinars and Division activities. This involvement has truly contributed to my growth as a researcher. I am very excited to attend the AOCS Annual Meeting for the first time this year, present my research, receive the award, and finally connect with many professionals and students in person. INFORM: WHAT SPARKED YOUR PASSION FOR THIS AREA OF RESEARCH? Dos Santos: My journey in analytics started in high school when I attended a professional program to become a laboratory technician. That is when I realized how important this area is to all scientific fields. Research is fundamentally about

FLAVIA DOS SANTOS Doctoral student in Food Science at the University of Manitoba under the supervision of Nandika Bandara. Analytical and the Protein and Co Product Divisions Member

Joined AOCS: 2024

AOCS Updates INFORM 9

INFORM: WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE NEXT STAGE OF YOUR ACADEMIC OR PROFESSIONAL JOURNEY? Dos Santos: I have a strong passion for teaching, research and entrepreneurship. So, after graduation, I intend to continue my journey in academia while staying involved in professional associations and exploring opportunities to translate research into practical applications. INFORM: WHAT DOES RECEIVING THE ANALYTICAL DIVISION STUDENT EXCELLENCE AWARD MEAN TO YOU? Dos Santos: Receiving this award represents a lot to me. I am very happy for receive it. Personally, it represents recognition of all the dedication and perseverance I have invested in my research journey. After all, we spend so much time in the lab— sometimes working overnight or very early in the morning— just to obtain good results. Professionally, it motivates me to keep striving for excellence and to continue contributing to the scientific community.

INFORM: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER STUDENTS? Dos Santos: I grew up hearing my parents say, “You cannot become the best by learning from the least prepared.” I think the same applies to research. If you want to pursue this career, surround yourself with experts in the field and stay actively engaged. You can do this by volunteering, attending Division events, presenting your work, and, most importantly, building meaningful professional connections. It’s also important to truly understand the principles behind the techniques you use. Analytical excellence isn’t just about operating equipment—it’s about interpreting data critically and asking the right scientific questions. And finally, stay curious and resilient. Research is full of challenges, but you do not learn only at the end of the journey; most of the learning happens along the way.

I am also passionate about adding value to local crops and agricultural residues, something that I have been working on since my master’s degree. I believe this has a huge impact on the economy, environment, and communities. INFORM: WHAT CHALLENGES HAVE YOU ENCOUNTERED DURING YOUR RESEARCH, Dos Santos: As a doctoral student, I’ve learned that research always comes with challenges. We carefully design projects with our supervisor, but we don’t really know if everything will work as planned until we start running the experiments. At one point, I had a hard time identifying and quantifying one compound. In theory, it should have worked, but in practice, it didn’t. I tried countless times without success. After discussing it with my supervisor, he reminded me that this is part of research. Sometimes we need to go back, recheck everything, or slightly adjust the direction to move forward. In this case, I had to modify my approach to move forward. That experience taught me that research requires flexibility and resilience. AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THEM?

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FROM THE FRYER TO THE WIRE: ENHANCING LABORATORY CONFIDENCE AND PERFORMANCE THROUGH AOCS SOLUTIONS

QUALITY REFERENCE MATERIALS (QRM)

high demand, certain materials may become limited or unavailable, so timely procurement is recommended. Explore available QRMs at: https://www.aocs.org/ technical-products/quality reference-material-qrms/ AOCS METHODS: STAYING CURRENT WITH INDUSTRY STANDARDS With the release of the AOCS 8th Edition electronic methods, AOCS has committed to updating approximately 20 percent of its official methods annually. This ensures that laboratories remain aligned with evolving scientific standards, regulatory expectations, and technological advancements. To access these updates, an active subscription is required. Organizations with expired subscriptions are encouraged to renew to maintain access to the most current methodologies. For subscription assistance, contact: technical@aocs.org

AND METHODS In many laboratories,

questions around analytical results can arise from internal stakeholders. These moments can place added pressure on laboratory managers and quality teams, highlighting the need for robust tools to ensure confidence in data and staff performance. The American Oil Chemists’ Society provides a practical solution through Quality Reference Materials. These materials are derived from additional samples within the AOCS Laboratory Proficiency Program and are designed to support ongoing internal performance monitoring. Each QRM is accompanied by a comprehensive report containing collaborated test results. Laboratory managers can use these materials to evaluate the performance of technicians and chemists across specific methods, reinforcing accuracy, consistency, and accountability within the lab. QRMs are added to inventory following each proficiency testing quarter. Due to

BUILDING STRONGER LABORATORY MONITORING PROGRAMS Organizations seeking to enhance their internal laboratory monitoring systems can benefit from AOCS expertise and resources. Whether implementing QRMs or developing structured performance tracking programs, AOCS offers solutions designed for efficiency and measurable impact. For guidance and support, contact: technical@aocs.org

JAOCS UPDATE INFORM 11

YOUR PARTNER IN PROCESSING

CRACKING MILLS

Oilseed preparation performance is driven by consistency, control, and how effectively equipment responds to variability in materials and operating conditions. French designs cracking, flaking, conditioning, and pressing systems with a focus on mechanical durability, stable and dependable operation, and long term serviceability, where uptime, maintenance access, and energy use directly influence plant performance. Across food and industrial applications, French preparation equipment provides uniform material quality through each step of the preparation process, controlled thermal exposure, and reliable operation under changing seed or other oil bearing material conditions. This balanced approach helps protect oil and cake quality while supporting efficient and stable downstream processes. At the French Innovation Center, processors evaluate preparation approaches using their own oilseeds. Working with experienced engineers, trials help refine operating conditions, manage variability, and reduce unnecessary heat and energy input before scale up, supporting informed preparation decisions as processes and expectations evolve.

FLAKING MILLS

SCREW PRESSES

We make machines to make people’s lives better. French Oil Mill Machinery Company | Piqua, Ohio

WWW.FRENCHOIL.COM

In 1900 The French Oil Mill Machinery Company began as a new idea - an idea that improved manufacturing processes and challenged established industry methods. Always focused on innovation and engineering creativity, our fourth generation family-owned company continues this tradition for the benefit of our customers.

12 INFORM MAY 2026, VOL. 37, NO. 5

2026-2027 AOCS GOVERNING BOARD MEMBERS OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE ​

VICE PRESIDENT ​ Roger Nahas

PRESIDENT Fabiola Dionisi

Treasurer Bryan Yeh

SECRETARY Rick Theiner

PAST PRESIDENT Gerard Baillely

Societe’ Des Produits Nestlé - Nestlé Research, Lausanne, Vaud, Switzerland

Kalsec, Kalamazoo, Michigan, USA​

Canary Bio, Inc., Walnut Creek, California, USA

Procter & Gamble, Mason, Ohio, USA

Evonik Corporation, Richmond, Virginia, USA

AT-LARGE MEMBERS ​

​M. Lidia Herrera

​ John Satumba Cargill, Plymouth, Minnesota, USA​

​ David Pinkston SuperSep Consulting, Decatur, Illinois, USA

Lingyun Chen

Rajan Panandiker Panandiker Consulting, West Chester, Ohio, USA

Bruce Patsey

National University of San Martin, Buenos Aires Province, Argentina

University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

Oil-Dri Corporation of America, Chicago, Illinois, USA

Naina Shah PepsiCo, Plano, Texas, USA​

Rishi Shukla ADM, Decatur, Illinois, USA

Matt Williamson ADF Engineering, Inc., Miamisberg, Ohio, USA

Yomi Watanabe Osaka Research Institute of Industrial Science & Technology (ORIST), Osaka, Japan

Tong (Toni) Wang

University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA​

AOCS Updates INFORM 13

2026-2027 AOCS DIVISION LEADERSHIP TEAM MEMBERS

LIPID OXIDATION & QUALITY CHAIR Marc Pignitter VICE CHAIR Ignacio Vieitez SECRETARY OF EDUCATION Victoria Acevedo SECRETARY OF MEMBERSHIP Han Peng STUDENT LIAISON Ravinder Singh AT-LARGE Fernanda Dias AT-LARGE Drew Elder PHOSPHOLIPIDS CHAIR Andrea Stange VICE CHAIR Gulustan Ozturk SECRETARY OF EDUCATION Prasuna Desam SECRETARY OF MEMBERSHIP Gozde Gulseren AT-LARGE Luis McDougal PROCESSING CHAIR Juliana Bell VICE CHAIR Vinay Patel SECRETARY OF EDUCATION Scott Korte SECRETARY OF MEMBERSHIP Gozde Gulseren STUDENT LIAISON Neeraj Ghangas AT-LARGE Chris Knight

PROTEIN & CO-PRODUCTS CHAIR Kaustav Majumder VICE CHAIR Nandika Bandara SECRETARY OF EDUCATION Yonghui Li SECRETARY OF MEMBERSHIP Bishnu Karki STUDENT LIAISON Harshani Hewage AT-LARGE Mahfuzur Rahman AT-LARGE Thilini Dissanayake SURFACTANTS & DETERGENTS CHAIR Hongwei Shen VICE CHAIR Lucas Moore SECRETARY OF EDUCATION Jason Zhang SECRETARY OF MEMBERSHIP Julian Barnes STUDENT LIAISON Surani Weerasundarage AT-LARGE Aslin Izmitli AT-LARGE Will Shearouse

SECRETARY OF MEMBERSHIP Lidia Herrera STUDENT LIAISON Vidheesha Abeysinghe AT-LARGE Oluwafemi Coker AT-LARGE Ozan Ciftci HEALTH & NUTRITION CHAIR Rinat Ran-Ressler VICE CHAIR Vermont Dia SECRETARY OF EDUCATION Prabhashis Bose SECRETARY OF MEMBERSHIP Cristina Chairez STUDENT LIAISON Timilehin Oluwajuyitan AT-LARGE Ren Wang AT-LARGE Emerson Nolasco AT-LARGE Hongbing Fan INDUSTRIAL OIL PRODUCTS CHAIR Majher Sarker VICE CHAIR BK Sharma SECRETARY OF EDUCATION Shanon Terry SECRETARY OF MEMBERSHIP DeMichael Winfield STUDENT LIAISON Tharushi Samarasinghe

ANALYTICAL CHAIR Giorgia Purcaro VICE CHAIR Lisa Clement SECRETARY OF EDUCATION Yao Lu SECRETARY OF MEMBERSHIP Frederic Destaillats STUDENT LIAISON Shimani Attygale AT-LARGE Francesca Giuffrida AT-LARGE Zainab Husain BIOTECHNOLOGY CHAIR Sarah Moran VICE CHAIR Monica Henry SECRETARY OF EDUCATION Ian Fleming SECRETARY OF MEMBERSHIP Laura Castellanos-Suarez STUDENT LIAISON Kofi Oduro AT-LARGE Anto Charles AT-LARGE Nadeem Akhtar EDIBLE APPLICATIONS TECHNOLOGY CHAIR Serpil Metin VICE CHAIR Andrew Gravelle SECRETARY OF EDUCATION Purlen Sezer Okur

UPDATING ANALYTICAL METHODS FOR MEASURING RESIDUAL HEXANE Xin Wu

AOCS METHODS INFORM 15

Hexane remains the dominant solvent for vegetable oil extraction. Approximately 90 percent of global oilseed processors rely on hexane based technology developed in the past century. New regulatory assessments require reliable, harmonized analytical methods to quantitatively determine that hexane residues are below established limits. To provide this necessary safety assurance analytical specialists are working on improved detection capabilities, cross-laboratory validation, and industry collaboration. Over the last century, as global demand for vegetable oils grew, oilseed processors began searching for ways to improve recovery. Today, solvent extraction allows processors to recover nearly 99 percent of the oil originally present in the seed.

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Over time, technical hexane emerged as the preferred solvent based on its beneficial properties: a strong solvency for non-polar lipids, a relatively low boiling point of about 70 °C, which allows efficient recovery by distillation, and a comparatively low cost. By the 1930s, hexane extraction had been adopted at industrial scale and it has remained the dominant method ever since. Today, it is estimated that nearly 95 percent of global vegetable oil extraction relies on hexane-based processes. loop systems, where most of the solvent is continuously recovered, condensed, and recycled within the process. This minimizes solvent losses while maintaining high extraction efficiency. As a result, hexane extraction continues to play a central role in the production of vegetable oils and defatted protein meals used in food and feed applications worldwide. WHY HEXANE IS BEING REVISITED TODAY Despite its long history of use, hexane has recently returned to the center of regulatory and scientific discussions. Technical hexane primarily consists of n-hexane, accompanied by several structural isomers such as 2-methylpentane, 3-methylpentane, 2,2-dimethylbutane, and 2,3-dimethylbutane. Together, Modern extraction plants are designed as closed

these compounds form the non-polar solvent fraction commonly used for oil extraction. In 1996, the European Commission evaluated the safety of technical hexane as a food extraction solvent. At that time, the committee concluded that hexane could be safely used under existing conditions. They estimated consumer exposure was 0.1 mg/kg body weight per day and established a no observed-effect level (NOEL) of 23 mg/kg body weight per day. Subsequent legislation, including Directive 2009/32/EC, defined technical hexane and established maximum residue limits (MRL) at 1 mg/kg for fats and oils. The European Union began a reassessment of chemical substance hazards under REACH Regulation, which became law in 2007. In September 2024, the Commission announced they would strengthen n-hexane regulation regarding its neurotoxic properties. While it has long been recognized as a peripheral neurotoxin, regulatory action in the EU moved toward stricter classification. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) published the “Technical Report on the Need for Re-evaluation of the Safety of Hexane Used as an Extraction Solvent in the Production of Foodstuffs and Food Ingredients” that concluded the 1996 safety assessment was outdated and recommended a

reassessment of hexane use as an oilseed extraction solvent. Current legislation defines hexane primarily by its boiling range, rather than detailed compositional specifications, creating uncertainty about possible minor constituents and impurities. The potential presence of contaminants such as benzene, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and mineral oil hydrocarbons (MOSH/ MOAH) has raised additional toxicological questions. At the same time, improved dietary exposure assessments suggest that consumer exposure—particularly among infants and young children— may be higher than previously estimated, introducing uncertainty into existing safety margins. Meanwhile, new research has expanded understanding of hexane’s metabolism, toxicokinetics, and biological effects, although these data have not yet been fully integrated into regulatory frameworks. The reassessment of hexane is not being driven by evidence of immediate risk. Rather, it reflects a broader regulatory trend: the re-evaluation of long-established processing aids using modern scientific methods and analytical capabilities. To support this reassessment, EFSA issued a Call for Data in June 2025, seeking new information on the use of technical hexane in food production. Soon afterward,

AOCS METHODS INFORM 17

on February 4, 2026, n-hexane was added to the Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC) list under the EU’s REACH regulation. As a result, the analytical determination of hexane residues in food has become a central component of the ongoing safety review. Food manufacturers, ingredient suppliers, and importers may be required to demonstrate compliance using validated analytical data. Consequently, the harmonization of analytical methods is vital for scientific organizations and standardization bodies, as comparable and reliable datasets will be essential for risk assessment and future regulatory decisions. TOOLS WE HAVE: EXISTING ANALYTICAL METHODS The currently harmonized methods for determining residual hexane were developed several decades ago. AOCS Official Method Ca 3b-87, Hexane Residues in Fats and Oils, measures hexane residues in fats and oils using gas chromatography with flame ionization detection (GC-FID). It is suitable for determining hexane concentrations within a stated scope of approximately 10 and 1500 mg/kg (ppm) in fats or oils; the lower limit reflects validated working range of the method rather than an intrinsic limit of detection. The International Organization

for Standardization (ISO) has a comparable standard 9832:2002, Animal and Vegetable Fats and Oils — Determination of Residual Technical Hexane Content. For oilseed meal, analysts commonly use AOCS Official Method Ba 14-87, Total Hexane Content in Extracted Meals. The lowest validated detection level for the method is approximately 300 ppm. There is also an equivalent ISO 8892:1987, Oilseed Residues — Determination of Total Residual Hexane. In addition, ISO 9289:1991, Oilseed Residues — Determination of Free Residual Hexane, describes a method for measuring hexane that is desorbed by direct heating of the oilseed residue without prior humidification of the sample. Although these methods have served the industry well; they have limitations. Commercial extraction solvents consist of mixtures of C6 hydrocarbons, as mentioned, n-hexane and its structural isomers. Traditional HS-GC-FID methods are often used in routine analysis to add these peaks and report the result as “total hexane,” reflecting the historical regulatory focus on total residual solvent. However, modern chromatographic systems are fully capable of separating individual C6 isomers under appropriate conditions. As regulatory attention increasingly focuses specifically on n-hexane, which is associated with neurotoxicity, analytical practices may shift toward

approaches that distinguish individual components within the hexane mixture. Furthermore, most validation studies for these methods were conducted in the 10–1000 ppm range. Current regulatory discussions focus on sub ppm levels. The methods were also originally developed for oils and oilseed meals, while regulators are now considering a wider range of matrices, including processed foods and ingredients containing oils. A RENEWED INDUSTRY CONVERSATION At the 2025 AOCS Annual Meeting, in Portland, Oregon, multiple presentations addressed the evolving regulatory and scientific landscape surrounding hexane extraction. The discussions highlighted a growing awareness within the industry that hexane is entering a period of renewed technical and regulatory scrutiny. One presenter reported analyzing five different refined oil samples and detecting no residual hexane above 0.1 ppm. Potential contaminants such as MOSH and MOAH, if present at all, were estimated to occur at levels below current analytical limits of quantification, approximately 22 ppb for MOSH and less than one ppb for MOAH. Another presentation examined population exposure to hexane, suggesting that

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exposure pathways may extend beyond plant-derived foods to include products of animal origin. This possibility highlights the need for more sensitive analytical methods capable of detecting residues not only in oils, but also in feed and animal-derived food products. Other AM25 presentations explored regulatory developments in Europe and

spectrometry (HS-GC-MS) remain the two most widely used approaches. HS-GC-FID has historically been employed to quantify total hexane, reflecting the combined signal of C6 hydrocarbons present in technical hexane. HS-GC-MS, by contrast, provides compound specific identification, allowing individual hexane isomers to be distinguished. While modern GC-FID systems can also separate individual isomers when chromatographic conditions— such as column selection and oven temperature programs— are carefully optimized, many routine analytical methods do not fully resolve these components and instead report total hexane concentrations. Distinguishing isomers has become increasingly important. Current toxicological discussions focus specifically on n-hexane, the isomer associated with neurotoxicity. As a result, analytical techniques capable of distinguishing n-hexane from other C6 hydrocarbons have gained attention. HS-GC-MS, with its ability to provide compound specific identification, therefore offers advantages recently returned to the center of regulatory and scientific discussions. Despite its long history of use, hexane has

in some regulatory contexts. Nevertheless, HS-GC FID remains widely used in industrial laboratories because of its simplicity, robustness, and long history of standardization, and many laboratories continue to report results as total hexane. Beyond traditional gas chromatography, researchers have also explored alternative analytical strategies. Methods based on solid-phase microextraction (SPME) and emerging sensor technologies such as semiconductor metal oxide (SMOX) detectors are emerging and throughput. While these approaches remain largely within the research domain, they illustrate the continuing innovation occurring in this area. Despite these developments, an important challenge remains—method harmonization. Many of the newer approaches have yet to undergo the type of collaborative validation studies needed to demonstrate reproducibility across laboratories. Until such studies are completed, differences in analytical methodology may make it difficult to compare datasets generated by different organizations. Recognizing this need, several scientific and industry organizations have begun exploring ways to update and harmonize analytical as potential tools for improving analytical sensitivity, selectivity,

reviewed emerging alternative extraction solvents, including bio based 2-methyloxolane. Together, these discussions reflected a multidisciplinary effort involving industry, researchers, and regulators to better understand hexane’s

analytical detection, exposure pathways, regulatory outlook, and possible technology alternatives. NEW ANALYTICAL APPROACHES EMERGING New analytical methods aim to improve specificity and applicability to a wider range of matrices, with sensitivity in the low or sub-ppm range. The goal is to ensure hexane residues can be detected at or below regulatory limits. Most of these efforts are built on established chromatographic techniques. Headspace gas chromatography coupled with flame ionization detection (HS-GC-FID) and headspace gas chromatography–mass

AOCS METHODS INFORM 19

methods. AOCS has been working with industry partners to improve the existing AOCS HS-GC-FID method for determining hexane residues. At the same time, the German Society for Fat Science (DGF) has established the Joint Committee for the Analysis of Fats, Oils, Fatty Products, Related Products and Raw Materials (GA Fett) to develop a method based on HS-GC MS, which is already used routinely by SGS laboratories. AOCS is considering cooperative validation efforts with ISO for the DGF method. Such collaboration could play an important role in establishing the next generation of harmonized analytical tools for monitoring hexane residues. COULD HEXANE BE REPLACED? While improvements in analytical methods address one part of the hexane discussion, another question often arises alongside regulatory reassessment: Could hexane itself eventually be replaced? The search for alternative extraction solvents is not new. For several decades, researchers have explored a variety of potential substitutes, motivated by environmental considerations, worker safety, and evolving regulatory expectations. Among the alternatives studied are ethanol, isopropanol, supercritical carbon dioxide, aqueous enzymatic extraction, and more recently bio based solvents such as 2-methyloxolane.

Some of these technologies have shown promising results in pilot studies or niche applications. However, none has yet matched the combination of characteristics that made hexane so successful in the first place. Hexane offers high selectivity for non-polar lipids, efficient solvent recovery due to its relatively low boiling point, an established industrial infrastructure, and a low cost. No alternative solvent replicates all of these characteristics simultaneously. In many cases, alternative solvents introduce new challenges. Some require higher energy input for solvent recovery, while others extract a broader range of compounds that complicate downstream refining. Implementing these alternatives may also require significant modifications to existing extraction equipment, making a large-scale transition both technically and economically complex. For these reasons, although solvent substitution continues to be an important area of research, the transition away from hexane—if it occurs—will likely be gradual. The pace of change will depend not only on technological advances but also on regulatory developments, economic considerations, and industry investment in new processing technologies. WHAT COMES NEXT As the reassessment of hexane moves forward, the conversation is shifting from discussions of historical use to

questions of data quality and scientific evidence. Regulators will rely heavily on analytical measurements to evaluate exposure and assess potential risks. Consequently, the reliability and comparability of analytical datasets are central concerns. This places new emphasis on the development of harmonized analytical methods capable of producing consistent results across laboratories and geographic regions. Achieving this goal will require collaboration among industry stakeholders, analytical laboratories, instrument manufacturers, and standardization bodies such as AOCS, ISO, and DGF. Through coordinated validation studies and continued advances in analytical technology, the industry has an opportunity to ensure that the scientific foundation supporting regulatory decisions is robust, transparent, and internationally comparable. In this way, the evolving discussion around hexane may ultimately strengthen not only regulatory oversight but also the analytical tools used to monitor solvent residues in the global food supply.

Xin Wu is a manager in Technical Services at AOCS. She can be contacted at xwu@aocs.org.

20 INFORM MAY 2026 , VOL. 37, NO. 5

DISCOVERING NEW LIPID SOURCES WITH POTENTIAL HEALTH BENEFITS FROM DIETARY FOODS Siddabasave Gowda B. Gowda, Divyavani Gowda, Shu-Ping Hui Hokkaido University researchers are pioneering the What if your daily cup of herbal tea or bowl of rice held secret

mass spectrometry (LC-MS) techniques, for targeted and untargeted lipid analysis, to uncover and quantify novel bioactive lipid species. Dietary lipids in food are being thoroughly evaluated thanks to recent advancements in lipidomics. Used in conjunction with enhanced chromatography–mass spectrometry techniques our research is revealing the intricacies of lipids and lipid-derived volatiles, such as aldehydes, alcohols, and ketones, and how they change with cooking temperatures and storage conditions. These findings also suggest fatty acids can modulate the body’s glycemic response by forming complexes with starches.

discovery of bioactive lipids in everyday Japanese foods, turning humble grains, teas, and staples into powerful allies against diabetes, inflammation, and metabolic diseases.

weapons against diabetes and inflammation? Lipids are essential nutrients in our diet, yet their composition in food remains underexplored. At Hokkaido University’s Laboratory for Advanced Lipid Analysis in the Faculty of Health Sciences, Japan, my research team investigates lipids and their functions at the intersection of analytical chemistry, biochemistry, and food science. The team is co led by Shu-Ping Hui, professor of analytical chemistry, in collaboration with Divyavani Gowda, assistant professor of analytical chemistry. Our lab specializes in using advanced liquid chromatography

LIPID ANALYSIS INFORM 21

Beyond assessing composition and nutritional quality, our team has made breakthroughs identifying and structurally characterizing novel fatty acid esters of hydroxy fatty acids (FAHFAs) and their short-chain analogues (SFAHFAs). These FAHFAs show potential anti inflammatory and anti diabetic effects. This article highlights key research featuring such discoveries. HERBAL TEAS: NATURE’S LIPID TREASURE TROVE In Japan herbal teas have deep cultural significance. Long prized in Japan for medicinal virtues, ancient texts mention their harvesting and health rituals. They are still consumed daily for long-term health and detoxification. Dokudami tea is used to cleanse the body and support immunity and skin health. Whereas yomogi has the reputation of being a magic cure.

Imagine sipping dokudami or yomogi tea not just for tradition, but for their unique lipid species—including groundbreaking SFAHFAs— that pack anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and gut-health punches at nutritionally relevant doses. These herbal teas dokudami ( Houttuynia cordata , fish mint), kumazasa ( Sasa veitchii ), sugina ( Equisetum arvense , common horsetail) and yomogi ( Artemisia princeps , Japanese mugwort) shatter the myth of being lipid-poor, as we revealed first with untargeted lipidomics using high-performance LC-LTQ Orbitrap MS analysis. Orbitrap mass spectrometers are fast while providing high resolution and mass accuracy. This is because their design enables them to act as both an analyzer and detector. Ions injected into the analyzer oscillate around a central electrode. Outer electrodes measure the ions’ oscillation

frequencies and image current detection provides the mass spectra using Fourier Transformation. An orbitrap system connected to liquid chromatography offers high throughput separation and detailed identification of complex lipid mixtures. When we used this analysis method to determine the composition of the herbal teas, we found they contain phenyl-terminated SFAHFAs with 4-hydroxyphenyl nonanoic acid (PNA) cores. To our knowledge, this is the first report of these compounds in plants, potentially revolutionizing our understanding of the teas’ health benefits. We identified the gut essential, short-chain fatty acids propanoic acid, butyric acid, and valeric acid. Finding this novel source of short chain fatty acids reveals an analytical challenge of under researched lipid profiles, while opening doors to their use in functional beverages.

Novel FAHFAs and SFAHFAs detected in Japanese herbal teas . Source: Gowda lab [M-H]-

Yomogi

4- PAHPNA

4- BAHPNA

Sugina

Dokudami

4- VAHPNA

FAHFA 13:0/17:4

Herbal tea

Kumazasa

4- VAHPNA

FAHFA 13:0/17:4

Herbal tea

Kumazasa

22 INFORM MAY 2026, VOL. 37, NO. 5

[M-H]-

White

[M-H]-

12-LAHOA

Red

Discovery of health-promoting lipids (FAHFAs)

Yomogi

Sorghum

4- PAHPNA

4- BAHPNA

12-LAHLA

Novel FAHFAs detected in Australian sorghum cultivars. Source: Gowda lab

Sugina

Dokudami

Kumazasa SORGHUM: FROM ANIMAL FEED TO DIABETES-FIGHTING SUPERGRAIN Once dismissed as mere animal fodder, sorghum—a staple across Africa and South Asia—we discovered that it is a nutritional powerhouse packed with anti-diabetic FAHFA and a balance of omega-3 and -6 fatty acids. Collaborating with team at the University of Sydney, in Camperdown, Australia Black Herbal tea Sorghum White Red

[M-H]- lipid species, including five potent FAHFA isomers. Using multivariate analysis, the MR43 variety was richest in health promoting lipids. Top cultivars like MR43 and Bazley were especially high in nutrients, while Buster topped nutritional scores with a heart-healthy P/S ratio of 2.15 (optimal range 1.0 to 1.5). Brown 4- VAHPNA we conducted untargeted lipidomics on six Australian varieties (Buster, Bazley, Cracker, Liberty, MR43, and Tiger). We identified 194

12-LAHOA PIGMENTED RICE: COLORFUL PATH TO METABOLIC WELLNESS Finally, we performed untargeted liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry-based lipidomics on 56 japonica rice cultivars from Japan to FAHFA 9:0/18:1 Red FAHFA 13:0/17:4 These findings spotlight sorghum’s potential in functional foods that could be used to battle metabolic disease.

Green

Medium-chain FAHFAs

Discovery of health-promoting lipids (FAHFAs)

LNAPE (FA 16:0) N-18:2

12-LAHLA

LNAPEs and FAHF detected in pigmented Japonica rice cultivars. Source: Gowda lab

Black

Green

Brown

Red

Medium-chain FAHFAs

LNAPE (FA 16:0) N-18:2

FAHFA 9:0/18:1

LIPID ANALYSIS INFORM 23

examine the influence of grain pigmentation on lipid composition. We are the first to report on the presence of a novel group of bioactive lipids in these foods. Black and green rice predominantly contain novel FAHMFA and LNAPE, offering anti-inflammatory benefits and slowing blood sugar spikes versus white rice. Comprehensive lipidomics annotated 196 lipids across five classes, confirming pigmented rices’ superior profiles: lab-simulated digestion (cooking plus enzymes) showed black

and green varieties curbed post-meal glucose surges dramatically. A LIPID LEGACY FOR GLOBAL HEALTH From fish to seaweeds—and now teas and rice—Japan has numerous lipid-rich traditions. These studies, funded by the Japanese Society for the Promotion of Science and the Japan Science and Technology Agency, reveal Japan’s overlooked lipid wealth, fuelling functional foods and personalized nutrition. We envision a future where choosing pigmented

rice or sorghum-infused products could redefine diets worldwide. Stay tuned, our ongoing hunts promise more breakthroughs. Siddabasave Gowda is an associate professor at Hokkaido University Faculty of Health Sciences, in Hokkaido, Japan. He leads lipid biomarker and bioactive food research. Divyavani Gowda is an assistant professor at the same institute, focusing on developing analytical platforms for targeted quantification of cholesteryl esters and sphingolipids in food and clinical samples. Shu-Ping Hui is a professor and lab director at the institute. She researches the role of lipids in food and health. For questions, please contact gowda@gfr.hokudai.ac.jp.

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