Bruker Introduces New Application for Dynamic Fat Crystallization Analysis of Fats and Mixtures using TD-NMR

Bruker today announced the introduction of its new Dynamic Fat Crystallization (DFC) analysis method using time-domain nuclear magnetic resonancce (TD-NMR) spectroscopy. This DFC method was developed in collaboration with partners Sollich KG, August Storck KG and the Fraunhofer Institute for Process Engineering and Packaging (IVV). It enables quality control (QC) managers to decide quickly whether fats and fat blends should be accepted or rejected, according to the fat crystallization pattern. 

Fat crystallization analysis is based on the acquisition of solid-fat content (SFC) information in fats and fat compositions, such as cocoa butter, cocoa butter equivalents and special fats. Current determination methods include dilatometry and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), which can take up to 45 hours.

Compared to these traditional methods, Dynamic Fat Crystallization analysis using Bruker’s minispec^®mq TD-NMR and Dynamic Center™ software, provide dynamic crystallization patterns of fats and mixtures within just two hours, including sample preparation. This significant time saving drastically speeds up decision-making about the quality or end use of fats in the production process. 

Thomas Spengler, Senior Market Manager for Food, Feed and Beverage Markets at Bruker BioSpin’s AIC Division explains: “Beyond the clear speed advantages, Dynamic FAT Crystallization analysis is easy to use for NMR non-specialists. While existing techniques measure isothermal crystallization for a defined period of time, our new DFC solution uses quasi-static crystallization to record values in real time.”

Marcel Boening, Process Engineering Manager at Sollich KG, commented: "For our customers in chocolate manufacturing, ensuring a consistent quality of raw materials is very advantageous for the continuous operation of our machines. Using the Dynamic Fat Crystallization analysis method, our customers can quickly check the crystallization of cocoa butter upon delivery, and the first step towards producing a perfect product is achieved.”

Isabell Rothkopf, Group Manager Chocolate Technology at Fraunhofer IVV Freising, added: “As a research institution, we depend on reliable methods for the characterization of a wide variety of products. With this new DFC development, we are advancing technologically challenging processes, e.g. in chocolate manufacturing. The Dynamic Fat Crystallization method offers a simple and fast way for the investigation of cocoa butter and cocoa mass. This is not only important for our research work, but also to efficiently support our industrial partners in key QC questions.”

Find more information on Bruker’s new solution for Dynamic Fat Crystallization Analysis.

About Bruker Corporation 

Bruker is enabling scientists to make breakthrough discoveries and develop new applications that improve the quality of human life. Bruker’s high-performance scientific instruments and high-value analytical and diagnostic solutions enable scientists to explore life and materials at molecular, cellular and microscopic levels. In close cooperation with our customers, Bruker is enabling innovation, improved productivity and customer success in life science molecular research, in applied and pharma applications, in microscopy and nanoanalysis, and in industrial applications, as well as in cell biology, preclinical imaging, clinical phenomics and proteomics research and clinical microbiology.