Titrimetric Determination and Precision Analysis of Saponification Value of Commercial Coconut Oil

The saponification value (SV) is a key physicochemical parameter reflecting the average molecular weight and fatty acid chain length distribution of fats and oils. This study determined the SV of commercial coconut oil (SPRING brand) by alkaline hydrolysis with alcoholic potassium hydroxide (KOH) and back-titration with standardized hydrochloric acid (HCl), following modified ISO 3657 methodology. The mean SV was 241.80 mg KOH/g (range: 228.04–253.77 mg KOH/g), with a standard deviation (SD) of 12.96 mg KOH/g and a relative standard deviation (%RSD) of 5.36%. The repeatability limit (r = 36.29 mg KOH/g), computed per ISO 5725, was not exceeded by any inter-trial difference, confirming method reproducibility. Although the mean SV fell slightly below the Codex Alimentarius range (248–265 mg KOH/g), results are consistent with published values for refined commercial coconut oil and reflect expected variability from incomplete saponification and endpoint detection subjectivity. The titrimetric method is confirmed as reliable and cost-effective for routine quality assessment and adulteration screening of edible oils.