ADSORPTION OF BETA-CAROTENE FROM ALKALI-REFINED RAPE SEED AND SOYBEANOILS WITH ATTAPULGITE AND SEPIOLITE

The difference in amounts of beta-carotene adsorbed on attapulgite and sepiolite was discussed on the basis of adsorption isotherm from alka li-refined rape seed and soybean oils. The amounts adsorbed on attapul gites were larger than those on sepiolites. The difference in the amou nts adsorbed on attapulgite and sepiolite could not be explained using their surface area, pore size distribution, acid strength, acidity or free fatty acids. It was concluded that triolein was competing with b eta-carotene for adsorption sites of attapulgite and sepiolite and tha t sepiolite was more accessible to triolein competition than attapulgi te.