Direct sampling capillary gas chromatography of volatiles in vegetable oils

Direct sampling gas chromatography used for determining volatiles and, indirectly, the flavor of vegetable oils, has been improved by a capillary column in place of the usual packed columns. Data on two good vegetable oils from a supermarket, and on one of these samples after intentional deterioration, are presented. Use of the capillary column provides a more efficient technique to differentiate between the better oils than did the previously used packed columns.