Detection of adulteration in sesame oil by UV spectrophotometry

The aim of this research was to develop a quick and efficient method to distinguish between genuine and adulterated sesame oils. Since the ultraviolet absorption pattern of each edible oil is very characteristic depending upon its source, we utilized the ultraviolet absorption characteristics of these edible oils to distinguish adulterated sesame oil from genuine sesame oil. Sesame oil could be characterized with a high absorption spectrum at 290 nm, while rice bran oil exhibited a UV absorption spectrum at 320 nm. Therefore, the measurement of absorbance at 290 nm and 320nm can be used to differentiate the oils that were adulterated with rice bran oil from pure sesame oil. By applying the absorption difference, this can be a useful means to distinguish adulterated sesame oils from genuine ones.