Question

Vanaspati is processed by converting unsaturated double bonds to saturated by the process of

• A. Winterization
• B. Sublimation
• C. Homogenization
• D. Hydrogenation

Hint:

Hydrogenation: Oil (liquid) $+ \text{H}_2 \xrightarrow{\text{Ni}} \text{Vanaspati (solid fat)}$. Increases shelf life and oxidative stability.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Lipid modification technology uses catalytic addition of hydrogen gas across unsaturated ethylenic double bonds in vegetable oils.
Key Formula or Approach:
\[ -\text{CH}=\text{CH}- + \text{H}_2 \xrightarrow{\text{Ni Catalyst, } 180-200^\circ\text{C}} -\text{CH}_2-\text{CH}_2- \]

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Hydrogenation is the commercial process of bubbling hydrogen gas through refined liquid vegetable oils (like soybean, palm, or cottonseed oil) at $160-200^\circ\text{C}$ in the presence of a finely divided nickel (Ni) catalyst.
This chemical addition reaction converts liquid unsaturated fatty acids (oleic, linoleic) into solid saturated fatty acids (stearic acid), raising the melting point to produce semi-solid vegetable ghee (Vanaspati).

Step 3: Final Answer:
Hence, Vanaspati is processed by Hydrogenation, corresponding to option (D).