Influence of sonocrystallization on lipid crystals multicomponent oleogels structuration and physical properties

The use of multicomponent oleogels combined with a physical process such as high-intensity ultrasound (HIU) has become an interesting alternative to overcome nutritional and technological issues in fat-based foods. This is because the combination can add technological properties without changing the total amount of gelators, improving sensory acceptance and clean label claim. In this context, the study aims to evaluate the structuration power and physical properties of oleogels formed by monoglycerides (MG), fully hydrogenated rapessed oil (FHRO), and lecithin (LE) in rapeseed oil, with and without HIU. All samples were analyzed according to their microstructure, melting behavior, rheology, texture, polymorphism, and oil binding capacity. In mono-structured oleogels, only MG was able to form gels that did not flow. Three synergic combinations that produced 99% oil binding capacity oleogels were found: MG: FHRO, FHRO:LE, and MG:FHRO:LE. These combinations showed improved physical properties like hardness, elastic modulus, and oil loss when sonicated, which was attributed to the induced secondary crystallization of the FHRO promoted by HIU.