Medium-Chain Oils
Edible Oil and Fat Products: Specialty Oils and Oil Products
First published: 17 February 2020
Abstract
Medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) are glycerine esters of primarily C8:0 and C10:0 fatty acids. Since these oils first became available in the 1950s, they have been the subject of attention because of their unique properties. MCT are more easily metabolized than conventional long-chain fats and provide a rapid, concentrated source of energy. As a result of their unique metabolic pathway, their first use was in medical foods for the critically ill and those unable to digest or metabolize conventional long-chain fats. MCT with odd-chain length fatty acids (especially C7:0) are also of interest for the management of certain diseases due to their ability to provide fuel for energy production. Ongoing research continues to demonstrate the potential health benefits MCT offer for a variety of conditions, especially brain health and weight management, and for individuals ranging from premature infants to aging adults. Animals including pets can also benefit from the supplementation of MCT in their diet. In addition, the physical properties of MCT are distinct from those of conventional fats and oils. This has led to the use of MCT in a number of other applications, especially in the food industry. This article provides an overview of MCT production and metabolism followed by a discussion of their use in various applications, emphasizing current research into nutritional applications. The utility of both even-chained and odd-chained MCT will be presented.
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Further Readings
- Jacobi, S.K. and Odle, J. (2012). Adv. Nutr. 3: 687–696.
- Stafstrom, C.E. and Rho, J.M. (2012). Frontiers Pharm. 3: 59. doi: 10.3389/fphar.2012.00059.
