ABSTRACT

The aim of this study was to determine the physical and chemical characteristics of oil samples produced from bullet pears sourced from Kogi, Enugu and Imo States of Nigeria. The states have different ecological conditions with probable effect on the physical and chemical properties of produce. Standard methods of analyses were used to determine the physical and chemical properties of the oil samples. Results showed that samples of bullet pears from Kogi State had the highest values in moisture content (0.12 %), iodine value (72.50 mgl00g^-1), peroxide value (7.82 meq/kg), unsaponifiable matters (1.86%), and viscosity (1.45 NSM^-2 x 10^-4). The physical and chemical properties of bullet pear oil from Enugu State were comparable with those from Kogi State, but differed from samples from Imo State. Bullet pear oil from Kogi state was purer but had a higher iodine value. There were significant (p<0.05) differences in the physical and chemical properties of bullet pears oil among the sampled locations. Bullet pear oil from Imo state differed from samples from Kogi and Enugu states in terms of refractive index, viscosity and peroxide value while bullet pear oil from Kogi state differed from samples from other locations in specific gravity and iodine value. Results obtained showed that bullet pear oil from all locations conformed to standards set by Nigeria Industrial Standards and Standard Organization of Nigeria for vegetable oils. Geographical variations in the physical and chemical compositions of the oil samples were suggestive of diverse uses of bullet pear oils.