In today’s food and feed industries, ensuring product quality and extending shelf life are paramount. Oxidation poses a significant threat to the integrity of fats and oils, leading to rancidity, off-flavours, and nutritional degradation. To combat this, Vitablend has introduced the Rosal-OX range of natural antioxidants, offering a robust solution for manufacturers seeking effective and natural preservation methods.

Oxidation is a chemical reaction that occurs when fats and oils interact with oxygen, resulting in the formation of peroxides and subsequent breakdown products. This process not only deteriorates the sensory qualities of food – such as taste, aroma and colour – but also diminishes its nutritional value. For industries like pet food manufacturing, where high-fat ingredients are common, oxidation can lead to reduced palatability and potential health risks for animals.​

Traditionally, synthetic antioxidants like BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole), BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene), and TBHQ (Tertiary Butylhydroquinone) have been employed to inhibit oxidation. However, increasing demand for clean-label products and natural ingredients has driven the food and feed industries to seek alternative solutions. Natural antioxidants, derived from plant sources, offer a more consumer-friendly label and align with the growing trend towards natural and sustainable food preservation methods.

Vitablend’s Rosal-OX series consists of a wide range of oil and water-soluble natural rosemary extracts, offered as stand-alone liquids or powders or in combination with natural mixed tocopherols for synergistic activity:

• Rosal-OX P13: An unrefined powder rosemary extract with a minimum of 13% carnosic and carnosol content.​
• Rosal-OX PR W/S: A refined, water-soluble powder containing a minimum of 6% rosmarinic acid, perfect for aqueous systems.​
• Rosal-OX LRD: A deodorised, refined liquid extract with at least 4.2% carnosic and carnosol content, suitable for applications where minimal flavour interference is desired.​

The versatility of the Rosal-OX range makes it applicable across multiple sectors:​

• Pet Food Industry: In pet nutrition, maintaining the freshness and palatability of fat-rich ingredients is crucial. Rosal-OX antioxidants help preserve the quality of meat meals and fats, ensuring the health and satisfaction of pets.
• Aquaculture: Fish meals and oils are highly susceptible to oxidation, leading to nutrient loss and off-flavours. Incorporating Rosal-OX can significantly enhance the stability and shelf life of aquafeeds. ​
• Meat Processing: Processed meats are prone to lipid oxidation, affecting flavour and colour. Rosal-OX provides natural antioxidative protection, maintaining product quality without relying on synthetic additives.
• Edible Oils and Fats: Edible oils are vulnerable to oxidative rancidity, compromising taste and safety. Rosal-OX antioxidants effectively stabilise these oils, extending their shelf life and preserving their nutritional properties.

Vitablend recognises that combining different natural antioxidants can yield synergistic effects, offering superior protection against oxidation. For instance, blending rosemary extracts with natural mixed tocopherols (vitamin E) or ascorbyl palmitate (vitamin C ester) can enhance antioxidative efficacy. The Tocoblend series exemplifies this approach, combining tocopherols with rosemary or green tea extracts to provide robust antioxidative systems tailored to specific application needs.

Vitablend’s dedication to quality extends beyond product offerings. The company provides comprehensive analytical services, including oxidation stability testing and shelf-life assessments, to ensure optimal antioxidant selection and application. This technical support empowers manufacturers to make informed decisions, aligning with regulatory standards and consumer expectations.
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As the local supplier of Vitablend’s Rosal-OX range, SK Chemtrade provides manufacturers with natural, effective solutions to combat oxidation and extend product shelf life. By harnessing the power of rosemary extracts, the Rosal-OX series helps industries meet the growing demand for clean-label, sustainable food and feed products. Contact SK Chemtrade today to learn more about how this innovative antioxidant range can benefit your business – email us at info@skchemtrade.co.za.