Molecular Authentication and Traceability of Artisanal Palm Oil from Côte d’Ivoire through a Multispectroscopic Approach

Abstract

Aims: To authenticate artisanal palm oil from Yamoussoukro (Côte d’Ivoire) by generating a quantitative molecular fingerprint using a multispectroscopic approach and to evaluate its nutritional and technological attributes. Study Design: Experimental analytical investigation combining compositional profiling and structural assessment using three complementary spectroscopic platforms. Methodology: Three batches of palm bunches (~15 kg each; total 45 kg) were collected, processed, and Soxhlet-extracted (50 g dried pulp; 12 h; 250 mL hexane). The oil was analyzed by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS), proton/carbon nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (¹H/¹³C NMR), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR). Triacylglycerol (TAG) distribution, fatty acid profiles, iodine value and molecular integrity were determined. Results: ESI-MS resolved 18 TAG species within m/z 853–939, dominated by PPO (26.62%), POO (22.41%), POS (10.71%) and PPP (7.45%), accounting for 67.19% of total intensity. ¹H NMR analysis quantified oleic acid at 38.39%, linoleic acid at 8.26%, linolenic acid at 0.51%, and total saturated fatty acids at 52.84% (palmitic/stearic predominance). Unsaturated fatty acids represented 47.16%, with a calculated iodine value of 47.63 g I₂/100 g, indicating intermediate fluidity and good oxidative stability. FTIR spectra featured characteristic ester C=O (1745 cm⁻¹), CH₂ stretching (2922–2853 cm⁻¹), weak olefinic =C–H (3006 cm⁻¹), and minimal trans absorption (942 cm⁻¹), confirming preserved triglyceride structures and low degradation. Conclusion: The multispectroscopic workflow generated a reproducible molecular fingerprint for Yamoussoukro artisanal palm oil, confirming authenticity and a balanced lipid profile. Its high monounsaturate level (>38%), low polyunsaturates (<1%), moderate iodine value (~48) and dominant TAG families (>67%) highlight its nutritional value and processing suitability. This integrated diagnostic approach provides a rapid, non-destructive tool for traceability, fraud detection, labeling assurance and premium market valorization.