Ternary Phase Diagram of β‐Sitosterol–γ‐Oryzanol–Canola Oil

Abstract

Abstract β‐Sitosterol and γ‐oryzanol have been shown to form unique structures in canola oil that have the potential to act as saturated and trans fat replacers [–]. The ternary phase, reported herein, illustrates numerous interesting physical systems. At high canola oil ratios with low β‐sitosterol and γ‐oryzanol concentrations, the system has a crystal structure capable of mimicking fat crystal networks. Four mesophases are identified based on Bragg's ratios using small angle X‐ray scattering. Two mesophases are lamellar crystals, one is the cubic P phase, and the fourth is an amorphous material due to the low solids content. Wide‐angle X‐ray further subcategorized the phases based on polymorphic divisions of the hydrocarbon side chain packing. In all, six distinct phases are reported, ranging from lamellar crystals, to liquid crystals to what appears to be a lipid glass.