Summary
This comparative assessment examines how climatic conditions and genetic diversity jointly influence the nutritional and oxidative properties of cold-pressed sunflower oil. Oils from Serbian-grown hybrids showed higher oleic acid and lower linoleic acid than Argentine samples, reflecting temperature-driven enzyme activity differences, whilst pigment accumulation correlated with solar irradiance. The findings demonstrate that both genotype and environment decisively modulate fatty acid composition, antioxidant content, and oxidative stability, with potential implications for targeted cultivation strategies to optimise oil quality.
Regional applicability
UK sunflower cultivation is limited by climate constraints; however, the methodology and insights on genotype–environment interactions could inform breeding programmes for oilseed crops suitable to cooler temperate conditions. The emphasis on retention of natural antioxidants in cold-pressed oils aligns with growing UK consumer interest in minimally processed plant oils.
Key measures
Oleic acid percentage, linoleic acid percentage, total tocopherols (mg/kg), carotenoids (mg/kg), chlorophylls (mg/kg), peroxide values (mmol/kg), acid values (mg KOH/g), principal component analysis variance explained
Outcomes reported
The study assessed fatty acid composition, tocopherol content, carotenoids, chlorophylls, peroxide values, and acid values in cold-pressed sunflower oils from hybrids grown in Serbia and Argentina. Principal component analysis was used to differentiate oils according to geographical origin and hybrid type.
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