Executives ...

The analysis of fatty acids has become increasingly important as more people are aware of their nutritional and health implications. Scientists are looking to license a method for the analysis of fatty acids that provides both rapid and reliable results. Many techniques are currently used to analyze fatty acids, however these are not convenient or direct and often must be optimized for specific reaction conditions.

Researchers have developed a simple, robust, single-vial digestion and esterification procedure for analyzing fatty acids in food products. Straightforward kits containing the necessary reagents and procedures would be of great value to the market. This technique employs commonly available chemicals, is not water-sensitive and allows for the conversion of fatty acid salts, as well as the acyl components in all lipid classes, such as triacylglycerols, phospholipids, sphingolipids, and waxes, to methyl esters using a simple direct single-vial digestion and esterification procedures. It does not require sample dehydration.

This technology is protected by a provisional patent application. Exclusive worldwide rights are available.

Contact: Washington State University Research Foundation, 1610 NE Eastgate Blvd., Pullman, WA 99164. Phone: 509-335-5526. Fax: 509-335-7237. Email: wsurf@wsu.edu.