Review on palm oil contaminants related to 3-monochloropropane-1,2-diol (3-MCPD) and glycidyl esters (GE)

The issue of food safety is a major concern in the oil palm industry as it will affect national income. 3-MCPD and GE are contaminants formed during the refining of palm oil, mainly in the deodorization step. Palm oil was reported to contain one of the highest levels of these contaminants amongst all vegetable oils. Both 3-MCPD and GE are characterized as a possible risk to human health. This review aimed to provide a comprehensive summary of the 3-MCPD and GE precursors and mitigation strategies to minimize the 3-MCPD and GE formation. Therefore, the oil palm industry should address these issues and find ways to comply with food laws, acts, regulations, and standards enforced by local and international authorities.