In the food industry, petroleum is most commonly found as a refined product known as mineral oil, primarily used because it does not spoil.
When we talk about petroleum in the context of food, we aren't referring to crude oil itself. Instead, it involves highly refined derivatives used for specific purposes, primarily in the form of mineral oil.
Understanding Mineral Oil in the Food Industry
As noted, in the food industry, petroleum-derived substances are typically referred to as mineral oil. This refined product is distinct from oils derived from plants or animals.
The key characteristic that makes mineral oil useful in certain food-related applications is its stability. As referenced from information dated 15-Jan-2016, unlike its counterparts such as vegetable and olive oil, petroleum doesn't go rancid. This resistance to oxidation and spoilage makes it valuable for specific technical uses where stability is crucial.
Key Properties for Food Applications
Mineral oil possesses properties that lend it to various uses where direct consumption might be minimal but contact with food is necessary:
- Non-Rancidity: It doesn't oxidize or break down easily, preventing off-flavors or spoilage in applications where it's in contact with food or used on equipment.
- Stability: Maintains its physical properties over time and temperature ranges encountered in food processing.
- Non-Toxic (Food Grade): Highly refined food-grade mineral oil is considered inert and safe for incidental contact with food or limited ingestion.
Let's look at how its rancidity property compares:
| Oil Type | Property Regarding Rancidity |
|---|---|
| Mineral Oil | Does not go rancid |
| Vegetable/Olive | Can go rancid (oxidize) over time |
Common Uses of Mineral Oil in Food-Related Contexts
While not an ingredient consumed like cooking oil, food-grade mineral oil has several applications:
- Lubricant: Used on food processing machinery to ensure smooth operation and prevent sticking, without contaminating the food with harmful substances.
- Non-Stick Agent: Applied to surfaces or equipment to prevent food items (like candies or baked goods) from sticking.
- Protective Coating: Sometimes used as a surface treatment for certain foods (e.g., fruits, candies) to provide shine, prevent moisture loss, or prevent sticking.
- Polishing Agent: Gives a glossy appearance to confectionery or dried fruits.
These applications leverage the stability and non-reactive nature of food-grade mineral oil, particularly its inability to go rancid, making it a reliable choice for specific technical roles within the food industry.
