Wax ester composition of monovarietal olive oils from Designation of Origin (DO) “Campos de Hellin”

The wax ester composition of six monovarietal olive oils (Arbequina, Benizal, Cornicabra, Cuquillo, Manzanilla, and Picual) from Designation of Origin (DO) “Campos de Hellin” (Spain) were analysed, to obtain a more complete characterisation of these varietal oils. The analyses were carried out by on-line liquid chromatography–gas chromatography (LC–GC) using the Through Oven Transfer Adsorption Desorption (TOTAD) interface. The oil made with Arbequina variety had the highest content of total wax ester (84.4 ± 4.3 mg/kg) and Picual oil the lowest (35.5 ± 3.7 mg/kg). The data obtained were analysed statistically; significant differences in C40, C44, C46 and total wax esters were found, with a level of confidence of 95%.

► Wax esters of monovarietal olive oils from DO “Campos de Hellin” were analysed.
► The analytical method used was simpler and faster than the EU Official method.
► Significant differences were found, with a level of confidence of 95%.
► The differences could be used to distinguish these monovarietal olive oils.