Using Protec™ OX and Protec™ SQ with Oils

You are asking about the proper way to use Protec™ OX and Protec™ SQ in oil formulations, specifically the heating requirement for Protec™ OX and its effect on heat-sensitive oils.

Based on the product information:

• Protec™ OX: This is an antioxidant. The recommended mixing method in oil is to use heat at 70-80°C to help it dissolve. It is stated that Protec™ OX can withstand this heat.
• Protec™ SQ: This is a singlet state quencher that helps protect ingredients from UV-induced degradation. It is mixed in oil and dissolves in oil, but the description does not specify a high heating temperature requirement for its dissolution.

Regarding your concern about heating heat-sensitive oils to 70-80°C:

Heating oils, particularly those rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, to temperatures of 70-80°C can indeed accelerate their oxidation and degradation. While Protec™ OX is added to provide antioxidant protection, the process of dissolving it at high temperatures using a heat-sensitive oil can potentially compromise the quality and stability of the oil itself.

Even with antioxidants present in the final formula, exposing heat-sensitive oils to high temperatures during the manufacturing process can reduce their initial stability and overall shelf life compared to processing at lower temperatures.

While some formulas might use less heat-stable oils, the recommended method for dissolving Protec™ OX at 70-80°C is specifically for achieving proper dissolution. If your formula contains oils sensitive to heat above 60°C, it is generally advisable to:

1. Dissolve the required amount of Protec™ OX in a small portion of a more heat-stable oil (such as Hydrogenated Olive Oil or a stable ester) heated to 70-80°C.
2. Once Protec™ OX is fully dissolved, add this concentrated mixture to the main oil phase at a lower temperature (e.g., below 60°C or as required by the rest of your formulation process).

This method ensures Protec™ OX is properly dissolved while minimizing the heat exposure of your sensitive oils. Protec™ SQ can typically be added to the oil phase at lower temperatures as it does not have the same high-temperature dissolution requirement.

In conclusion, heating heat-sensitive oils to 70-80°C for dissolving Protec™ OX will likely negatively impact their quality and stability. Using a heat-stable oil for the dissolution step or dissolving Protec™ OX in a small, heat-stable portion of the oil phase before combining with the full oil phase at a lower temperature is the recommended approach to protect your heat-sensitive ingredients.