Ο ΪΒΑΤΪ VELY-STABILi ED FATS CONTAI NG VERY LONG- CHAIN OMEGA-3 POLYUNSATURATED FATTY ACIDS AND USES

THEREOF

TECHNICAL FIELD

i ^' OOei The present disclosure relates generally to edible fats and food products made with edible fats. More particularly, the present disclosure describes edible fats that are oxidaii vely stable even though they have elevated levels of oils containing very long chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Food products made with such fats exhibit surprisingly long shelf life.

BACKGROUND

[Θ0Θ2] Consumers are paying increasing attention to not only the total fat content in food products, but also the nature of those fats, in general, foods low in saturated fats and /ra v~fats are viewed as healthier. Consumers also perceive some health benefits in increasing the levels of omega-3 fatty acids in one's diet.

10003] Omega-3 fatty acids, also referred to as n-3 fatty acids, are unsaturated fatty acids having a carbon-carbon double bond in the third position. From a nutritional standpoint, the most important omega-3 fatty acids are probably a-lino!enic acid. ("ALA''}, etcosapemaenoie acid ("EPA"), and docosahexaenoic acid ("DHA"), ALA is an i 8-earbon fatty acid moiety having three carbon-carbon double bonds (commonly referred to as C 8:3 in shorthand notation), one of which is at the «-3 position. EPA is a 20-carbon fatty acid moiety having 5 carbon-carbon double bonds ("C20;5") and DHA is a 22-carbon fatty acid moiety having 6 carbon-carbon, double bonds ("C22;6").

[0004] Generally, the oxidative stability of a fatty acid decreases noticeably as the number of carbon-carbon double bonds, or the degree ofnnsaturation, increases. Unfortunately, ALA, EPA, and DHA are all polyunsaturated fats that tend to oxidize fairly readily. EPA (with 5 carbon-carbon doable bonds) is significantly more prone to oxidation than ALA; DO A (with 6 carbon-carbon double bonds) is even more prone to oxidation than EPA. As consequence, increasing the omega-3 content tends to reduce the shelf life of many food products.. These problems become particularly acute with, oils including significant amounts of EPA and DHA. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Overview

[0005] Specific details of several embodiments of the disclosure are described below. One aspect of the present disclosure is directed toward a food composition comprising an edible, non- hydrogenated fat Slaving at least 1 t% omega-3 fatty acids with a carbon chain length of twenty or greater and three or more carbon-carbon double bonds, no more than 1.0 wt% saturated fatty acids, and an Oxidative Stability Index f OSF ^' ) at 1 1 °C of at least 5 boors in the absence of added antioxidants, wherein the food composition comprises at least 16 mg of EPA pins DHA per FD A reference serving size of the food composition, and wherein the food composition has no material increase in an off-flavor or an off-aroma after storage at about 60 °C for at least, about 6 hours, at least about 12 hours, at least about 18 hours, at least about 24 hours, at least about 2 days, at least about 3 days, at least about 4 days, at least about 5 days, at least about 6 days, at least about 7 days, at least, about 8 days, at least about 9 days, at least about 10 days, at least about days, or at least about 12 days, as determined by a trained sensory panel, in comparison to a control food composition that is formed in the same manner but without the 16 mg of EPA plus DHA. In some embodiments, the food composition may be a pasta, a cracker, a bar, or a ready- to-eat cereal. In some embodiments, the food composition comprises at least 32 mg of EPA plus DHA per EDA reference serving size of the food composition, and the food composition has no materia! increase in an off-flavor or an off-aroma after storage at about 60 °C for at least about 6 hours, at least about 12 hours, at least about 18 hours, at least about 24 hours, at least about 2 days, at least about 3 days, at least about 4 days, at least about 5 days, at least about 6 days, at least about 7 days, at least about 8 days, at least about 9 days, at least about 10 days, at least about 11. days, or at least about 12 days, as determined by a trained sensory panel, in comparison to a control food composition that is formed in the same manner but without the 32 mg of EP A plus DH A .

J Θίί061 Another aspect of the disclosure provides a food composition comprising a edible, non-hydrogeiiated fat havin at least 1 wt% omega-3 fatty acids with carbon chain length of twenty or greater and three or more carbon-carbon double bonds, and an Oxidative Stability Index ("OSI") at 1 10 ^a C of at least 37 hours. This fat includes a) a first fat inc luding a rapeseed oil having at least about 65 wt% oleic acid; b) a second fat having at least 10 wt% of omega-3 fatty acids with a carbon chain length of twenty or greater and three or more carbon-carbon double bonds; and c) optionally an antioxidant, wherein the food composition comprises at least 16 mg of EPA plus DHA per FDA. reference servi ng size of the food composition, and wherein the food composition has no material increase m an off- flavor or an off- roma after storage at about 60 °C for at least about 6 hours, at least about 12 hours, at least about 18 hours, at least about 24 hours, at least about 2 days, at least about 3 days, at least about 4 days, at least about 5 days, at least about 6 days, at least about 7 days, at least about 8 days, at least about 9 days, at least about 10 days, at least about 1 1 days, or at least about 12 days, as determined by a trained sensory panel, in comparison to a control .food composition that is formed in the same manner but without the 16 mg of EPA plus DHA. hi some embodiments, the .food composition may be a pasta, a cracker, a bar, or a ready-to-eat cereal. In some embodiments, the food composition comprises at least 32 mg of EPA plus DHA per FDA reference serving size of the food composition, and the food composition has no material increase in an off-flavor or an off-aroma alter storage at about 60 °C for at least about 6 hours, at least about 1.2 hours, at least about 18 hours, at least about 24 hours, at least about 2 days, at least about 3 days, at least about 4 days, at least about 5 days, at: least about 6 days, at least about 7 days, at least about 8 days, at least, about 9 days, at least about 10 days, at least about 1 1 days, or at least about 12 days, as determined by a trained sensory panel, in comparison to a control food composition that is formed in the same manner but without the 32 mg of EPA plus DHA.

jCHMITj Another aspec t of the disclosure provides a beverage comprising an edible, non- hydrogeiiaied fat having at least 1 wt% omega-3 fatty acids with a carbon chain length of twenty or greater and three or more carbon-carbon double bonds, no more than 10 wt% saturated fatty acids, and an Oxidative Stability Index ("081") at 1 10°C of at least 5 hours in the absence of added antioxidants, wherein the food composition comprises at least 1.6 mg of EPA plus DHA per FDA reference serving size of the food composition, and wherein the .food composition has no material increase in an off-flavor or an off-aroma after storage at about 4 °C for at least about 6 hours, at least, about 12 hours, at least about 18 hours, at least about 24 hours, at least about 2 days, at least about 3 days, at least about 4 days, at least about 5 days, at least about 6 days, at least about 7 days, at least about 8 days, at least about 9 da s, at least about 10 days, at least about 1 1 days, at least about 12 days, at least about 13 days, at least about 1 days, at least about 15 days, at least abou 1 days, at least about 17 days, at least about 1 days, at least about 19 days, at least about 20 days, or at least about 21 days, as determined by a trained sensory panel, in comparison to a control food composition that is formed in the same manner but without the .1 16 mg of EPA plus DBA. In some embodiments, the beverage composition may be a milk-based beverage, a nutritional supplement beverage, or a roeal-replacement beverage. In some embodiments, the beverage composition comprises at least 32 rag of EPA plus DHA per FDA .reference serving size of the food composition, and the beverage composition has no material increase in an off-flavor or an off-aroma after storage ai about 4 °C for at least about 6 hours, at least about 12 hours, at least about 1 8 hours, at least about 24 hours, at least about 2 days, at least about 3 days, at least about 4 days, at least, about 5 days, at least about 6 days, at least about 7 days, at least about. 8 days, at least about. 9 days, at least about 10 days, at least about 1 1 days, or at leas about 12 days, at least about 13 days, at least, about 14 days, at least about IS days, at least about 16 days, at least about ί 7 days, at least about 18 days, at least about 1 days, at least about 20 days, or at least about 21 days, as determined by a trained sensory panel, in comparison to a control beverage composition, thai is formed in the same manner but without the 32 mg of EPA plus DHA.

(Θ008) Another aspect of the disclosure provides a beverage composition comprising an edible, non-hydrogenaied fat having at least 1 wt% omega-3 fatty acids with a carbon chain tengili of twenty or greater and three or more carbon-carbon double bonds, and an Oxidative Stability index ("OS.!"} at 1 H C of at least. 37 hours. This fat includes a) a first fat including a rapeseed oil having at least about 65 wt% oleic acid; b) a second fat having at least 9 wt¾ of omega-3 tatty acids with a carbon chain length of twenty or greater and three or more carbon- carbon double bonds; and c) optionally an antioxidant, wherein the beverage composition comprises at least 1.6 rag of EPA plus DHA per FDA reference serving size of the food composition, and wherein the beverage composition has no materia! increase in an off-flavor or an off-aroma after storage at about 4 °C for at least about 6 hours, at least about. 12 hours, at least about 18 hours, at least about 24 hours, at least about 2 days, at least about 3 days, at least about 4 days, at least about 5 days, at least about 6 days, at least about 7 days, at least about 8 days, at least about 9 days, at least about 10 days, at least about 11 days, or at least, about 12 days, at least about 13 days, at least about 14 clays, at least about 15 days, at least about 1 days, at leas about

17 days, at least about 18 days, at least about 19 days, at least about 20 days, or at least about 21 days, as determined by a trained sensory panel, in comparison to a control beverage composition thai is formed in die same manner but without, the 16 mg of EPA plus DHA. in some embodiments, the beverage composition may be a milk-based beverage, a nutritional supplemen t beverage, or a meal-replacement beverage. In some embodiments, the beverage composition comprises at least 32 mg of EPA plus DBA per FDA reference serving size of the beverage composition, and the beverage composition has no material increase in an off-flavor or an off- aroma after storage at about 4 °C for at least about 6 hours, at least about 12 hours, at least about 18 hours, at least about 24 hours, at least about 2 days, at least about 3 days, at least about 4 days, at least about 5 days, at least about 6 days, at least about 7 days, at least about 8 days, at least about 9 days, at least about 10 days, at least about i 1 days, or at least about 12 days, at least about 13 days, at least about 14 clays, at least about 5 days, at feast about 16 days, at least, about 17 days, at least about IS days, at least about 1 days, at least about 20 days, or at least about 21 days, as determined by a trained sensory panel, in comparison to a control beverage composition that is formed in the same manner but without the 32 mg of EPA plus DHA.

f 6009] Another aspect of the disclosure provides an edible baked food product formed by baking a composi tion at a temperatitre of at least 350 ^C P (177 X) for at least 1.5 minutes. The product, includes an edible, non-hydrogenated fat comprising a) a vegetable-sourced oil

containing omega-3 fatty acids with a carbon chain length of twenty or greater and three or more carbon-carbon double bonds, and b) optionally an antioxidant. As used herein, ihe terras "vegetable οίΓ and "vegetable-sourced oil" include oil from oilseeds such a apeseed or soybeans. The edible, non-hydrogenated fat lias an Oxidative Stability index ("081") at 1 }0X of at least 5 hours and at least 1 wt% omega-3 fatty acids with a carbon chain length of twenty or greater and three or more carbon-carbon double bonds. The edible baked food product

comprises at least 16 nig of EPA. plus DHA per FDA reference serving size of the food product, and has no material increase in an off-flavor or an off-aroma after storage at about 22 X for at least about .12 hours, at least about 18 hours, at least about 24 hours, at least about 2 days, at least about 3 days, at least about 4 days, at least about 5 days, at least about 6 days, at least about 7 days, at least about 8 days, at least about 9 days, at least about it) days, at least about 1 1 days, at least about 12 lays, at least about 13 days, at least about 14 days, at least about 3 weeks, at least about one mouth, at least about 2 months, at. least about 3 months, at least about.6 months, at least about 12 months, or at least about .1 months, as determined by a trained, sensory panel, in comparison to a control food product that is formed in the same manner but without the 16 mg of EPA plus DHA. in some embodiments, the food product comprises at least 32 mg of EPA plus DHA per FDA reference serving size of the food composition, and the food composition has no material increase in an off-flavor or an off-aroma after storage at about 22 X .for at least about 12 hours, at least about 18 hours, at least about 24 hours, at least about 2 days, at leas about 3 days, at least about 4 days, at least about 5 days, at least about 6 days, at least about 7 days, at least about 8 days, at least about 9 days, at least about 10 days, at least about 1 1 days, at least about 12 days, at least about 13 days, at least about 14 days, at least about 3 weeks, at least about one month, at least about 2 months, at least about 3 mouths, at least about 6 months, at least about 12 months, or at least about 18 months, as determi ned by a trained sensory panel, in comparison to a control food product that is formed in the same manner but without the 32 rag of EPA plus DHA,

[00.10} Another aspect of the disclosure provides an edible baked food product formed by baking a composition at a temperature of at least 35 °F (177 ^C C) for at least 15 minutes. The composition includes an edible, non-hydrogenated iat comprising a) a rapeseed oil having at least 65 weight percent ( ^* Vi%") oleic acid, b) a vegetable-soorced oil containing omega-3 fatty acids with a carbon chain length, of twenty or greater and three or more carbon-carbon double bonds, and c) optionally an antioxidant. The edible, non-hydrogenated fat Iras an. Oxidative Stability Index 'OSI") at 1 0 of at least 37 hours and at least I wt% omega-3 fatty acids with a carbon chain length of twenty or greater and three or more carbon-carbon double bonds. The edible baked food product comprises at least 1.6 mg of EPA plus DHA per FDA reference serving size of the food product, and has no materia! increase in an off-flavor or an off-aroma after storage at about 22 ^t; C for at least about 12 hours, at least about 18 hours, at least about 24 hours, at least about 2 days, at least about 3 days, at least about 4 days, at least about 5 days, at least about 6 days, at least about 7 days, at least about 8 days, at least about 9 days, at least about 10 days, at least about 11 days, at least about 12 days, at least about 13 days, at least about 14 days, at least about 3 weeks, at least about one month, at least about 2 months, at least about 3 months, at least about 6 months, at least about 12 months, or at least about 18 months, as determined, by a trained sensory panel, in comparison to a control food product that is formed in the same manner but without the 16 mg of EPA plus DHA. in. some embodiments, the food product comprises at least 32 mg of EPA plus DH per FDA reference serving size of the food product, and the food product has no material increase in an off-flavor or an off-aroma alter storage at about 22 °C for at least about 12 hours, at least about 1 hours, at least about 24 hours, at least about 2 days, at least about 3 days, at least about 4 days, at least about 5 clays, at least about 6 days, at least about 7 days, at least about 8 days, at least about 9 clays, at least about 10 days, at least about 1.1 days, at least about .12 days, at least about 13 days, at least about 14 days, at least about 3 weeks, at least about one month, at least about 2 months, at least about 3 months. at least about 6 months, at least about 12 months, or at least about 1 months, as determined by a trained sensory panel, in comparison to a control food product that is formed in the same manner but without the 32 rag of EPA plus DB A.

(00Π| A method of making an edible baked food -product in accordance with a further aspect of the disclosure includes mixing a composition comprising a first food ingredient, which may be flour, and an edible, non-hydrogenated fat and baking the composition at. a temperature of at least 35 °F { 177 ^" Ό for at least Ϊ5 minutes. In one embodiment, the edible, non- hydrogenated fat includes a) a vegetabie-sourced oil containing oraega-3 fatty acids with a carbon chain length of twenty or greater and three or more carbon-carbon double bonds, and b) optionall an antioxidant. In some embodiments, the edible, non-hydrogenated fat has an Oxidative Stability Index ("OSI") at 1 10°C of at least 5 hours and at least 1 t% oraega-3 fatty acids with a carbon chain length of twenty or greater and three or more carbon-carbon double bonds, in another embodiment, the edible, non-hydrogenated fat includes a) a. rapeseed oil having at least 65 weight percent ("wt%") oleic acid, b) a vegetabie-sourced oil containing omega-3 fatty acids with a carbon chain length of twenty or greater and three or more carbon- carbon double bonds, and c) optionall an antioxidant, in some embodiments, the edible, non- hydrogenated fat has an Oxidative Stability Index ("OSI") at 1 H C of a least 3? hours and at least 1 wt% omega-3 fatty acids with a carbon chain length of twenty or greater and three or more carbon-carbon double bonds. The edible baked food product comprises at least 16 mg of EPA plus DHA per FDA reference serving size of the food product, and has no material increase in an off-flavor or an off-aroma after storage at about 22 "C for at least about 12 hours, at least about 18 hours, at least about 24 hours, at least about 2 days, at least about 3 days, at ieast about 4 days, at least about 5 days, at least about 6 days, at least about ? days, at. least, about 8 days, at least about 9 days, at least about 1.0 days, at least about. 1 1 days, at least, about 12 days, at least about 13 days, at least about 1 days, at least about 3 weeks, at least about one month, at least about. 2 months, at least about 3 months, at least about 6 months, at least about 1.2 months, or at least about 18 months, as determined by a trained sensory panel, in comparison to a control food product that is formed in the same manner but without the 1 6 mg of EPA plus DHA. in some embodiments, the food product comprises at ieast 32 mg of EPA plus DEI A per EDA reference serving size of the food product, and the food product has no material increase in an off-flavor or an off-aroma after storage at about 22 °C for at ieast about 12 hours, at least about 1 hours, at least about 24 hours, at least about 2 days, at least about 3 days, at least about 4 days, at least about 5 days, at least aboui 6 days, at least about 7 days, at least about 8 days, at least about 9 days, at least about 1.0 days, at least about. 1 1 days, at least about 1.2 days, at least about. 13 days, at least about 14 days, at least about 3 weeks, at least about ne month, at least about 2 months, at least about 3 months, at least about 6 months, at least about 12 months, or at least about 18 months, as determined by a trained sensory pane!, in comparison to a control food product that is formed in the same manner but without the 32 mg of EPA plus DHA.

[0012] Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities of ingredients, properties such as molecular weight, percentages, reaction conditions, and so form used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified by the term ''about."

Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the munerkal parameters, set forth are

approximations mat ma depend upon the desired properties sought.

Edible Fats - Components

(0013] Embodiments of the disclosed edible fats include a first iat, which in some embodiments has at least 63 wt% oleic acid; a second fat that includes very long chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid ( ^' ,<?., omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid having a carbon chain length of twenty or greater); and, optionally, an antioxidant. Suitable components are described, below.

A . High Oleic Acid First Fat

[0014] The first fat is an edible fat and may be relatively high in oleic acid, typically including at least 63 wt% oleic acid, a monounsaturate 18-carbon acid moiety commonly referred to as C I S: i . in select embodiments, the first fat includes at least 65 wt%, e.g., 67 wt% or more, oleic acid, with select implementations including at least 70 wl%, e.g., 73 wt% or more, 75 wt% or more, 80 wt% or more. 82 wt% or more, or 84 wt% or more, oleic acid.

[0015) in the compositions described herein, the stated fatty acid percentages are based on the tota! weight of fatty acids in the iat and may be determined using AOCS Official Method Ce l i-07. in the Examples set forth below, unless otherwise indicated, the fats are analyzed via a gas chromatograph determination of fatty acid profile per the American Oil Chemist's Society Official Method Ce 1 ί-07, modified as spelled out below in connection with the Examples.

(0016] The first fat may also be relatively low in saturated fatty acids, in some

embodiments comprising no more than 12 wt% saturated fatty acids. For example, the .first fat may contain 1 wt% or less, e.g., 9 wt% or less, 7 wt% or less, no more than 5 wt.%, or no more than 4.5 wt%, or no more than 4 wt¾, saturated fatty acids. Use of a first fat with lower saturated fatty acid content can reduce the total amount ^' of saturated fat in t he edible fat composition, particularly if the edible fat composition includes more of the first fat than the second fat. Although the first fat may be partially hydrogenated, a non-hydrogenated oil is preferred for many applications as it will limit the content of both saturated fat and trans-fats. As noted above, lower total saturated fat and trans-fat contents have positive health connotations in consumers" minds. For other food applications thai require a structured fat it may be

advantageous to include a hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oil.

j _. Oei.7] If so desired, the .first fat may be relati vely low in ALA. In some embodiments, the first fat comprises no more than 5.0 wt% ALA, e.g., no more than 4.0 wt% or no more than 3.5 wt% ALA, with some useful embodiments employing a first fat having no more than 3.0 wt% ALA, no more than 2 wt ALA, no more than 2.5 wt% ALA, or no more than 1 wt% ALA. In other embodiments, however, the first fat may have higher levels of ALA. to further increase the total oniega-3 fatty acid content of the edi ble fat composition.

J0 I8} in some implementations, the first fa desirabl has no more than 20 wt%, preferably no more than 18 wt%, e.g., 15 wt% or less, Iinoleic acid, which is an 18-carbon acid moiety with two carbon-carbon double bonds commonly referred to as Ci :2. In some embodiments, the first fat includes no more than. 12 wt% iinoleic acid, no more tha 10 wt% Iinoleic acid, or no more than 9 wt% iinoleic acid.

[ 019 The first fat .may he free, or at least substantially free (e.g^ no more than 0.1 wl%), of omega- 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids having more than 18 carbon atoms and more than two carbon-carbon double bonds. It is anticipated that, the first fat will be free of both EPA and DHA.

10020} Although the first, fat ma come from a variety of fat sources, e.g., algal oils, in one embodiment, the first fat is, or at. least includes, a. vegetable oil. Typicall this oil will be commercially refined, bleached, and deodorized, though a less-processed oil such as an expelled oil or a cold-pressed oil, may be used. In a preferred embodiment, the first fat is rapeseed oil, which encompasses what is commonly called "canola" oil in. North America. Suitable rapeseed oils meeting the above-specified criteria are commercially available front CargilL Incorporated of Wayzata, Minnesota, USA under the CLEAR VALLEY* trademark, such as CLEAR

VALLEY 65-brand ("CV65"), CLEAR VALLEY 75-brand ("CV75"), or CLEAR VALLEY 80- brand ("CV80") canola oils. High-oleic sunflower oil (e.g., CLEAR V ALLEY brand) having at least about 65 t% oleic acid and high-oleic, Jow-iinolemc soybean, oil may also suffice for sortie specific applications.

B. VLC Omega-3 PUFA-eontainmg Second Fat

|0021| Edible fats disclosed herein may employ a second fat, which preferably is both edible and non-hydrogenated, that serves as a source for very long chain om ^' ega-3

polyunsaturated fatty acid content As used herein, "very long chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid" and "VLC omega-3 PUFA" refer to a long chain polyunsaturated omega-3 tatty acid with a carbon chain length, of 20 or greater arid 3 or more carbon-carbon double bonds. Such fatty acids include, but are not limited to, EPA, DMA, and DPA; "D A" refers to the omega-3 isomer of docosapentaenoic acid (also known as clupanodonk acid), which is a 22-carbon fatt acid moiety having 5 carbon-carbon double bonds .(C22:5n-3). The term "VLC omega-3 PUFA" encompasses both a single type of fatty acid (e.g., EPA or DMA) and multiple types of fatty acids (e.g., EPA and DMA) where used below unless context requires otherwise.

[0022] The second fat can have at least 5 wt% VLC omega-3 PUFA, at feast 6 wt%, at least 7 wt%, at least 8 wt%, at least 9 wt% ₅ or desirably at least 10 wt VLC omega-3 PUFA. In some preferred embodiments, the second fat includes at least 13 wi%, at least 15 wt%, at least. 16 wt%, at least 22 wt%, at least 30 wt¾, or at least 36 wt%„ e.g., 20-45 wt%, VLC omega-3 PUFA. Edible fats known to have such high VLC omega-3 PUFA contents include those derived from specific animals, especially marine animals, specific algae, and fermentation. In some embodiments, the edible fat including VLC omega-3 PUFAs may be derived from a vegetable source, such as, for example, rapeseed that has been modified to produce VLC omega.-3 PUFAs. Methods of preparing rapeseed that has been modified to produce VLC omega-3 PUFAs are known to those of skill in the relevant arts and are described, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 7,544,859 (Heinz el l\ U.S. Patent Application No. 10/566,944 (Zank ei al. , U.S. Patent No. 7,777,098 (Cirptts et a/.), U.S. Patent Application No. 12/768,227 (Cirpus et alX U.S. Patent Application No.10/590,457 (Cirpus et ai.\ U.S. Patent No. 8,049,064 (Cirpus et a/.), 12/438,373 (Bauer et al), and International Patent Application No. PCT/C A2007/CK) 1218 (Meesaptodsuk eial.), the entireties of which are incorporated herei n by reference.

[0023] Oils containing VLC omega-3 ^' PUFA are notoriously oxidatively unstable and for that reason* may be sold in encapsulated form. As noted below, however, aspects of this disclosure provide edible fins that have excellent, oxidative stability without the complexity ami expense of encapsulation. Accordingly , it is preferred that the second fat be in balk form instead of encapsulated.

(00241 The second fat may contain one specific type of VLC omega-3 PUFA, e.g., DBA or EPA. in one useful embodiment, however, the second fat includes both EPA and DHA. In some embodiments, the second fat including both EPA and DHA may be derived from a vegeiable-sourced oil, such as, for example, a rapeseed oil. In some embodiments, the rapeseed oil is a canola oil that includes at least 2 wt%, at least 3 wf¾, at least 4 wt%, at least 5 wi%, at least 6 wt%, at least 7 wt%, at least 8 wi%, at least 9 wt%, at least 10 wt%, at least 3 r¾, at least 1.5 wt%, or at least 2 wt% VLC Omega-3 PUFAs. In some embodiments, the canola oil includes less than 30 wl%„ less than 28 wt%, less than 26 wt%, less than 24 wt%, less than 22 wt%, less than 20 t%, less than 18 wt , or less than 16 wt% VLC O.mega-3 PUFAs. In some embodiments, the canola oil includes 2 wt% to 30 wt%, 3 wt% to 28 wt%, 5 wt% to 26 wt%, 7 wt% to 24 wt%, 8 wt% to 22 8.5 t% to 20 wt%, 9 wt% to 18 t%, or 9.5 wt¾ to 16 wt% VLC Omega-3 PUFAs. In some embodiments, such canola oil includes at least 2 t%, at least 3 wi%, at least 4 wi%, at least.5 wt%, at least 6 wt%, at least 7 t%, at least 8 wt%, at least 9 wt%, at least 10 wt%, at least. 13 wt%, at least. 15 wt%, or at least 20 w .% combined DHA. and EPA. In some embodiments, the canola oil includes less than 30 wt%„ less than 28 wt%, less than 26 wt%, less than 24 wt%, less than 22 wt%, less than 20 wt , less than 18wi%, or less than 16 wt% combined DHA and EPA. in some embodiments, the canola oil. includes 2 wt% to 30 wi%, 3 wt% to 28 t%, 5 wt% to 26 wt%, 7 wt% to 24 wt%, 8 wt% to 22 wt%, 8.5 t% to 20 wt%, 9 wi% to 18 wt%, or 9.5 wt% to 16 wt% combined DHA and EPA.

[0025] The conventional commercial processes of refining, bleaching, and deodorizing can be deleterious to fats that contain VLC omega-3 PUFA, promoting oxidation of the

polyunsaturated tat. Accordingly, it may be advantageous to employ a second fat that is an expelled oil, a cold-pressed oil, or a solvent-extracted oil that has not been subjected to the Ml commercial refining, bleaching, and deodorizing process.

C. Antioxidant

[0026] Edible fats of this disclosure optionally include at least one antioxidant. Any of a wide range of antioxidants recognized for use in fats and other foods are expected to work well including but not limited to tertiaty-butylhydfoquinone ("TBHQ'% bnty!hydroxyamsole ("BHA"), butylhydroxyloluene f ^* 8HT"), propyl gal!ate ("PG"). vilamijft £ and other tocopherols, rosemary oil, rosemary extract, green tea extract, ascorbic acid, ascorbyl palmitate, or selected po ^' lyamines (see, e.g., U.S. Patent No. 6,428,463 and Shahidi, Fereidoon, ed. Bailey's Industrial Oil and Fat Products. Sixth ed. Vol .1. John Wiley & SOBS, 2005, die entireties of which are iiicorporated herein by reference). Such antioxidants may be used alone or in combination. One rosemary oil-based antioxidant is commercially available from Kalsec, Inc. of Kalamazoo, Michigan, USA under the trade name DURALOX. I» one implementation that has been found to work well, the antioxidant comprises TBHQ. Rosemary extracts and green tea extracts that may be used in embodiments of the present disclosure are available under the trade name GUARDIAN and are available from Danisco, Copenhagen, Denmark,

(0627] As used herein, the term ''maximum antioxidant content" ("Max. AO") refers to the maximum amount (weight percent) of an antioxidant allowed in a food product by the FDA in 21 CFR as of I September 2009 that preferably has no material adverse sensory impact on the food product to which it is added. In some embodiments, the Max. AO of BHA, TBHQ, BHT, or PG in the edible fat may be 200 ppm; lesser levels, e.g., 350 ppm, or 1 0 ppm, are also expected to work well. In some embodiments, the Max. AO of rosemary extracts or green tea extracts in the edi le fa may be less than 5,000 ppm; lesser levels, e.g., less than 4,000 ppm, less than 3,000 ppm, less than 2,000 ppm, or less than 1,000 ppm, are also expected to work well.

Edible Fats - Properties

A. Generally

|0628] Edible fats in accordance with aspects of this disclosure may include at least I wt%, preferably at least 1.5 wt%, VLC omega-3 PUFA. Desirably, the edible fats have a VLC omega-3 PUFA content of at least 2 wt%, e.g., at least 2.5 wt%, and preferably at least 3 wt% or at least 3.5 wt%. Some preferred embodiments may have 0.55-7 wi%, e.g., 1-5 wt%, 1 -4 wt%, or L5-3.5 wt%, YLC omega-3 PUFA.

jy ^" 029| The amount of VLC omega-3 PUFA in the edible fat will depend in part on tire nature and relative percentages of the first and second fats, with VLC omega-3 PUFA content increasing as the amount of the second fat is increased. The precise combination of first and second fats and the resultant VLC omega-3 PUFA content use fid in any given application will depend on a variety of factors, including desired shelf life, flavor profile, and the type of food application for which the edible fat is intended. With the present disclosure in hand, though, those skilled in the art should be able to select suitable combinations of the identified first and second fats for a particular application.

(0030 ^' j As explained previously, saturated fats and trans-fats have negative health connotations. Certain edible fats of the disclosure, therefore, may have relatively low levels of such fats. For example, some useful implementations have less than 12 wt% saturated fat, preferably no more than 1 \vi%, e.g., no more than 9 wt% or no more than 8 wt. , saturated fat In certain applications, the edible fat may have less than 7 wt%, desirably less than 5 wt%, saturated fat. Although most commercially-refined, bleached, and deodorized vegetable oils ii contain some minor level of trans-fat, the edible fat desirably includes no more than.3.5 wt% trans-fat, preferably no snore than 3 wt%, e.g., 0-2 wt%, trans-fat.

(0031 in some implementations, the edible fat may be a structured fat that is solid or serai-solid at room temperature. In other applications, however, the edible fat is pourable at room temperature. For example, the oil may have a solid fat content (determined in accordance with AOCS Cd i6b- ⁽ >3) of no more than 20%, e.g., no more than 12% or no more than 10%, at

1 era

B. Oxidative Stability

(0032] Oxidative stability depends on many factors and. cannot be determined by fatty act profile alone. It is generally understood, though, that VLC omega-3 PUP A tend to oxidize rnon readily than oleic acid and other more saturated fatty acids. On a relative oxidative stability scale, linoleic acid is significantly more stable than VLC o.raega-3 PUF A, oleic acid is significantly more stable than linoleic acid, and saturated fatly acids are even more stable than oleic acid.

[0033} Edible fats of this disclosure exhibit notably high oxidative stability despite their relatively high VLC omega-3 PUFA levels. Particularl surprising is thai these high oxidative stabilities have been achieved without, increasing saturated fat -contents to unacceptable levels in an effort to compensate for the increased VLC omega-3 PUFA content. European Patent No. 1 755 409, for example, specifically teaches that liquid oils are undesirable for use with Martek' DMA-containing algal oil, instead saying that one should, use such oil with highly-saturated tropical fats, such as palm oil and palm kernel oil.

[0034} Oxidative stability can be measured, in a variety of ways. As used herein, though, oxidative stability is measured as an Oxidative Stability Index, or OSL. at 80*C and 1 10 C, as spelled out below in connection with the Examples, ft is worth noting that the temperature at which the OS! test is conducted can significantly impact the measurements, with OSl measurements being significantly lower at higher temperatures. See, for example, Garcia- Moreno, ei al _s "Measuring the Oxidative Stability o fish Oil By the Rancimat Test" from the proceedings of Food Innova 2010, October 25-29, 20. if ⁾ , Valencia, Spain, which suggests that a 30°C increase from 60°C to 90°C _t with all other factors remaining the same, can drive the OSl measurement for Fish oil from IS hours down to less than 2 hours.

[Θ035] in some embodiments, edible fats of this disclosure may exhibit an OSl value at 1 lf)' ^T, C of greater than 35 hours, e.g., at least 37 hours, greater than 40 hours, greater than SO hours, greater than 60 hours, or greater than 69 hours.

C . Select Embo di ments

0036] la one commerciaily-useful aspect of the present disclosure, the first fat is rapeseed oil and the second fat is vegetabie-sourced oil, preferably a rapeseed oil containing VLC Omega- 3 PUFAs. More specifically, the rapeseed oil may comprise refined, bleached, and deodorized, canola oil derived from Bmssica napus seeds and may contain at least 65 wt% oleic acid, no more than 4 wt% ALA, and no more than 20 wt linoleic acid. The vegetabie-sourced oil is desirably food grade and contains at least 2.5 wt%, -e.g., .10 wt% or .15-35 wt%, VLC omega- 3 PUPA.

|0t*37| The edible fat desirably includes between 50 wt% and 97 wt%, .g., 75-96 wt% or 80-96 wt%, of the rapeseed oil and between 3 wt% and 50 wt%, e.g., 4-25 wt% or 4»20 wt%, vegetabie-sourced oil containing VLC Omega-3 PUFAs. With the addition of antioxidants, such blends have yielded OSl values greater than 35 hours, e.g., at least 37 hours, with many such blends exceeding 40 hours and some exceeding 50 hours, 60 hours, or even 69 hours.

Food Products

10038} Aspects of this disclosure allow formulation of food products with relatively high levels of VLC omega-3 FUFA without unduly sacrificing shelf Mie. in one implementation, food products of the disclosure contain at least 1 mg of VLC omega-3 FUFA (preferably DMA and/or EPA}, desirably at least 32 rag o VLC omega-3 FUFA (preferably DHA and/or EPA), per 50 g of the food product. In some embodiments, the food product may be a bread, a muffin, a pasta, a cracker, a bar, or a rea y-to-eat cereal, in some embodiments, the edible fat may be added to a milk-based beverage (e.g., a beverage including a whole milk, a 2% milk, a 1% milk, or a skimmed milk), a nutritional supplement beverage, or a meal-replacement beverage, in some embodiments, the milk-based beverage may be a flavored milk-based, beverage, such as, for example, a chocolate-flavored miik-based beverage, a strawberry-flavored milk-based beverage, a banana-flavored milk-based beverage, an orange-flavored miik-based beverage, a van ilia- flavored milk-based beverage, a caramel-flavored milk-based beverage, or a coffee- flavored milk-based beverage,

[0039} Some embodiments provide food products comprising edible fats in accordance with the preceding discussion. The edible fat may be incorporated in the food product in any conventional fashion. For example, the food product may comprise a fried food (e.g. , French fries or dontus) fried in the edible fat.

(00 02 in other instances, the edible fat may be mixed with other ingredients of the food product prior to cooking, e.g., to suppl some or all of the fat requirements for a batter or the like for a baked food product. Edible fats in accordance with the disclosure appear to be very useful in food products that are cooked with the edible fat included, e.g., by incorporating the edible fat in an uncooked product then cooking to produce the final food product. In baked goods, for example, uncooked product may be a batter or dough (e.g., a bread dough) thai incorporates the edi ble fat and the uncooked product ma be cooked at a temperat ure of at least 350 F ( .g. _} at least 75 "F or at least 400 ) tor at least 10 minutes {e g., at least 15 minutes, at least 20 minutes, or at least 30 minutes). Edible fats in accordance with this disclosure are expected to withstand the challenging environment of such cooking to provide cooked food products, including baked food products, with both elevated VLC omega-3 PUFA contents and commercially-desirable stability, and sheif life.

[00411 in still other instances, the edible fat may be an ingredient in a food product or a component thereof that does not need to be cooked. In such, applications, the edible fat is not subject to the rigors of high-temperature processing, in one such application, the edible fat may be used as a bakery shortening (e.g., a liquid shortening or as a component in a solid or semisolid shortening) for use in fillings, icings, or the like. In another such application, the edible fat may be sprayed on the food product as a coating, e.g., as a coating applied to crackers, chips, pretzels, cereal, products (e.g., ready-to-eat cereals or cereal bars), nuts, or dried fruits. In some embodiments, the edible fat may be added to a miik-based beverage (e.g., a beverage including a whole milk, a 2% milk, a \% milk, or a skimmed milk), a nutritional supplement beverage, or a meal-replacement beverage, in some embodiments, the milk-based beverage may be a flavored milk-based, beverage, such as, for example, a chocolate-flavored milk-based beverage, a strawberry-flavored milk-based beverage, a banana-flavored milk-based beverage, an orange- flavored milk -based beverage, a vanilla-flavored ilk -based beverage, a caramel-flavored milk- based beverage, or a coffee-flavored milk-based beverage,

[0042] Knowing the desired fat content of a gi ven food product, (he composition of the edible fat may be adjusted to yield a desired VLC omega-3 PUPA content in the food product ^' . For example, the U.S. Food and Drag Administration ailows food manufacturers to identify a food product as a "'good" source of omega-3 fatty acids if it contains at least 16 mg of EPA plus DHA (i.e., the combined weights of EPA and DMA) per serving and as an "excellent" source if it contains at least 32 .rag of EP A plus DHA per serving. In. one embodiment, food products of the invention may meet one or both of these criteria without unduly impacting shelf life.

|0643] The US FDA sets a "reference amount" for deienninhig an appropriate serving size for a given food product in the U.S., with the reference amount varying from one type of food product to another. As used herein., the terra FDA Reference Serving Size for a given food product is the "reference amount" set forth in 21 CFR § 10.1 .12 as of 1 September 2009, For example, the FDA Reference Serving Size for grain-based bars such as granola bars is 40 g, for prepared French fries is 70g, and for snack crackers is 30 g.

(0644] By way of example, a food manufacturer may intend to produce a grain-based bar. If the bar includes 1 g of the present edible fat per 40 g FDA Reference Serving Size, an edible fat having 1.65 wt% EPA plus DHA (eg , sample A.4 in. Example 1. below) would contribute 16,5 mg of EPA plus DHA per serving, permitting the '"good source" designation on the packaging for the bar. if the bar instead includes 2 g of the same edible fat per serving, the bar could be designated as an "excellent source" of EPA plus DBA. Similarly, a bar could be labeled as a "good, source" of EPA plus DHA if it contains 1.5 g of an edible fat of the disclosure having 1.1 t% EPA plus DHA {e.g., sample A3 in Example 1 below) per serving. With the oxidative stabilities of the present, edible fats, such food products should have excellent shelf lives despite their high VLC omega-3 PUFA contents.

Shelf Life

1064$] In some embodiments, food products comprising edible fats in accordance with the preceding discussion and at least 16 mg of EPA plus DBA per FDA reference serving size of the food product are provided, where the food products include has no material increase in an off- flavor or an off-aroma after storage at about 60 for at least about 6 hours, at least about 12 hours, at least about 18 hours, at least a oai 24 hoars, at least about 2 days, at least about 3 days, at least about 4 days, at least about 5 days, at least about 6 days, at least abont 7 days, at least about 8 days, at least about 9 days, at least about 1.0 days, at least about 1 1 days, or at least about 12 days, as determined by a trained sensory panel, in comparison to a control food product that is formed in the same manner but without the edible fats in accordance with the preceding discussion.

[0046] in some embodiments, food products comprising edible fats in accordance with the preceding discussion and at least 1 mg of EPA plus DHA per FDA reference serving size of the food product are provided, where the food products include has no raai rial increa e in an off- flavor or an. off-aroma after storage at about 4 °C for at least about 6 hours, at least about 12 hours, at least about 1 8 hours, at least about 24 hours, at least about 2 days, at ieast about 3 days, at ieast about 4 days, at least about 5 days, at least about 6 days, at least about 7 days, at least abou 8 days, at. least about 9 days, at least, about 10 days, at Ieast about 11 days, or at least about 12 days, at least about .13 days, at least about 14 days, at Ieast about 15 days, at least about 1.6 days, at Ieast about 5.7 days, at least about 1 8 days, at Ieast about 19 days, at least about 20 days, or at least about 21 days, as determined by a trained sensory panel, in comparison to a control food product that, is formed in the same manner but without the edible fats in accordanc with, the preceding discussion,

J0047] Testing has demonstrated that food products produced in accordance with

embodiments of the present disclosure have no material increase in an. off-aroma in. comparison to a control food product that is fomied in the same manner but without 16 mg of EPA plus DRA per FD A reference serving size of the food product or without 32 mg of EPA plus DHA per FDA reference serving size of the food product.

[0048] In particular, aroma testing by {rained test panels has demonstrated that, food products with an edible fat component, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure reliably yield a food product lacking off-aroma. Surprisingly, this sensory analysis did not note any material increase in fishy, painty, earthy, rancid, or oxidized aromas of the type commonly associated with, some oils, including EPA and DHA.

1.7 EXAMPLES

Experimental procedures

[0049] The following experimental examples utilize several test protocols:

j0O5O] Oxidative Stability Index C Si"): The OSI measurements were carried out in accordance with AOCS Cd l2b-92 at SOX and 11 OX as indicated with a 743 ANCI AT analyzer (Metrohra AG, Herisau, Switzerland) generally in accordance with American Oil Chemists' Society test protocol AOCS Cd 12b-92, except that the sample size of the oil is 3,0 g.

[Θ051 j Fatty acid profile (wt%) determination: In accordance with American Oil Chemist's Society Official Method AOCS Ce l i-07, the oil is treated to convert acylglyeerols to fatty acid methyl esters ("FAMEs ^" ") sod vials of the FAMEs are placed in a gas chromatograph for analysis in accordance with American Oil Chemist's Society Official Method AOCS Ce l t~ 07. This modified chromatography employs aa Agilent 7890A gas chromatograph (Agilent Technologies, Santa C lara, CA) equipped with a fused silica capillary column (30m x 0.25 mm and 0.25 μαι film thickness) packed with a polyethylene glycol based DB-WAX for liquid phase separation (J& W Scientific, Folsom, CA), Hydrogen (¾) is used as the carrier gas at a flow rate of 1.2 mL miii and the column initial temperature is 170X, ramp 1 X min, final temperature is

[0052] Scliaal Oven Test (AOCS Cg 5-97): The fat is placed in amber glass bottles and the bottles are stored, open to ambient air, in an electrically heated convection oven held at 60X. The oil is periodically assessed, e.g., by measuring peroxide values and/or conducting sensory testing. This method is commonly referred to as the "Schaal Oven" method and is widely used as an accelerated aging test of shelf stabil it for oil substrates.

(Θ053) Peroxide Value: Conducted in accordance with American Oil Chemist's Society Official Method AOCS Cd 8b-90.

Example ί - OSI of Oils at 80X and 1 IPX

[Θ054] CLEAR VALLEY 80-brand canola oil (XV80" in Table .1 A) (Cargi!l,

Incorporated, Wayzata, Minnesota, USA) and a canola oil including 1 combined DHA, EPA, and DP A C'DHA/EPA canola 10 oil" in Table 1A) were subjected to OSI testing at 80 and at 11 OX at as set forth above. The OSI value at 80X and at 1 ! OX for each of the samples was measured without any added antioxidants. The results of the OSI tests are set forth in Table I A.

Table 1A. OSI Test Results at 80°€ and at 110°C

[0055] These results show that the OSI values for the canola oils tested are about ten times higher at 80 than at 1 10°C. DHA/EPA canola 10 oil can be stabilized with specialty canola oil (e.g., CLEAR VALLEY-80) and/or by the addition of antioxidants known to those skilled in the relevant arts.

Example 2 - OSI of Oils with Antioxidants at U 0 ^';; C

\ S6] Materials: CLEAR. VALLEY 80-brand canola. oil f "CV80") (Cargiil, Incorporated, ayzaia, Minnesota, USA), canola oil ("Canola") (Cargtli, Incorporated, Wayzata, Minnesota, USA), GUARDIAN Rosemary Extract 08 (Danisco, Copenhagen, Denmark), GUARDIAN Rosemary Extract 12 (Danisco, Copenhagen, Denmark), GUARDIAN Rosemary Extract 22 J (Danisco, Copenhagen, Denmark), GUARDIAN Green Tea. Extract.20M (Danisco, Copenhagen, Denmark), and GUARDIAN Green Tea Extract 20S (Danisco, Copenhagen, Denmark).

[00S7J CV80, and Canola are combined with antioxidant to provide oil samples having an antioxidant concentration of 1 ,000 ppm or 2,000 ppm (Table 2), The "Control" for each oil sample does not include added antioxidant.

j 0058 j OSI testing at 1 R C was performed on each of the samples at as set forth above.

The results of the OSI tests are set forth in Table 2.

1.9 Table 2. OSI. of Oils with Antioxidants at 110°C

[0Θ59] These results show tSiai the OSi values for the oils tested are higher when either a rosemary extract or a green, tea extract is added to the oil.

Example 3 , Fatty Acid Profiles and OSI Values of Oils

[ m] Materials: CLEAR. VALLEY 80-brand canola oil rCVSO") (CargilL Incorporated, Wayzata, Minnesota, USA), a canola oil including about 10 wi% combined. DHA, EPA, and DPA ("DHA/EPA canola 1.0"), and a canola oil ^' including about 1.3 wt¾ combined DHA, EPA, and DPA ("DHA EPA canola IT).

[0061] The fatty acid profiles of oils used in this Example were measured using the modified the AOCS Ce li-07 protocol noted above. Table 3A sets forth the measured wt% for each of the identified fatty acids. Table 3 A. Fatty Acid Profile of Oils

DHA/EPA DHA/EPA CanolalO: Citiioia 13:

DHA/EPA DHA/EPA CVSO (50:50 CVSO (50:50

Fattv Acid Cauda 13 ( aaolii 10 Blend) Blend)

C8:0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

C ;0 0.00 0.00 0,00 0.00

CI 0:0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

CI 1:0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

CI 2:0 0.00 0.00 0,00 0.00

C11:1 0,00 0.00 0,00 0.00

CI 3:0 0.00 0.00 0,00 0.00

CI 2:1 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

C 4;0 0.06 0.06 0.05 005

CI 3:1 0.00 0.00 0,00 0.00

CI 4:1 + 15:0 0,00 0.04 0,03 0.02

CI 6:0 4.61 4.81 4,06 3.96

CI 6:1 0.11 0.2.1 0.21 0.16

CI 7:0 0.00 0.00 0.03 0.05

CI 8:0 3.14 i ,96 2.00 2.60

CI 8:1 Oleate 23.28 28.36 52.73 50.50

CI 8:1

Vaccenate 2.10 3.34 0.09 0.10

CI 8:2 31,15 30.64 19.63 1 .94

C20:0 0.82 0.58 0.65 0.78

CI 8:3 Gamma 1.5? 1.05 0,53 0.74

C20.1 0.81 0.83 1.14 1.14

CI 8:3 Alpha

Lin 4.38 7.42 4.84 3.3

C20:2 0.86 0.74 0,39 0.45

C22:0 0.36 0.30 0.35 0.38

C20:3 Homo

Lin 3,01 1.36 0.68 1.49

C22:l 0.00 0.00 0,00 0.00

CI 8:3 M-14-ί? 0.32 0.26 0.10 0.15

C20 4 5.17 4.19 2.13 2.49

C2 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

(" 0.00 0.10 0.00 0.00

C20 5 (EPA) 8.42 5.88 3.03 4.06

C24:0 0,00 0.12 0.20 0.15

C22:3 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.18

C24:i 0.00 0.1.1 0.00 0.00

C22;4 0.97 0.78 0.35 050 C22;5N3(DPA) 3.06 3.26 1.59 1 .57

C22:6 (DBA) \ Ί 1.25 0.74 0.S3

EPA + DPA -4- DMA 13.20 10.3V 5.36 6.45

[ΘΘ62] The oils were sabjecied to OSi testing at 80*C arid at 1 1 ^' "C at as set forih above. The OSI values ai 80°C and at 1 H3 ^¾ C were measured with and/or without added tertiary- hutylhydroqutnone ('TBHQ"; 0.02 wi%) as indicated in Tables 38 and 3C. The results of the OSI tests are set forth in Tables 3B and 3C

Tabie 3B. OSI at 80°C with and without Antioxidant

Table 3€. OSi at 1 lfi°C with and without Antioxidant

[0063] These results show that the OSI values at both 80 C and 1 10 *C for the oils tested are higher when TBHQ is added to the oil

Exam le _; 4. _; Breads..Prepared, wit _; Canola Qi Is

[6064] Three bread doughs were prepared using the ingredients lisied in Table 4A and three different oils: Dough I - cano ^' ia oil (Cargill, Incorporated, Wayzata. Minnesota, USA); Dough 2 - a canola oil including about 10 wt% combined DHA , EPA, and DPA ("DHA EPA canola J 0" from Example 3); and Dough 3 - a canola oil including about 13 wt% combined DHA, EPA, and DPA ("DHA/EPA canola 13" from Example 3). Table 4A. Bread Dough Dry ingredients and Water

[6065] The ingredients listed in Table 4A were combined and mixed in a KJTCHENAID Professional 6 .mixer (Whirlpool Corporation, Benton Harbor, Mi, USA) at speed 2 for 15 minutes to form a mixture. For Dough 1 , to a portion of the mixture was added canola oil (50g oil/9()0g mixture) and the combination was mixed for an additional 10 minutes at speed 2. For Dough 2, to a portion of the mixture was added DHA/EPA canola 1 oil (SOg oii 900g mixture) and the combination was mixed for an additional 10 minutes at speed 2, For Dough 3, to a portion of the mixture was added DHA/EPA canola 13 oil (SOg oil/900g mixture) and the combination was mixed for an additional 10 minutes at speed 2. The doughs were covered and allowed to rise for about one hour. The doughs were then punched, shaped, and placed in separate greased baking pans. The doughs were allowed, to rise in the baking pans for about 30 minutes and were then placed in an oven heated to 350 *F for about 30 minutes. Each bread type was baked separately for independent aroma evaluation.

ji)(J66] The resulting baked breads were removed from the oven and allowed to cool to room temperature and then were weighed. Ciiamcteristics of the baked doughs are summarized in Table i B

Table 48. Characteristics of Baked Doughs

Baked Loaf j

Sample weight (ø 1 Room Aroma Oven Aroma Bread Seasory

Strong baked- Strong baked - Strong baked -

Dough 5 18.3 bread aroma bread aroma bread aroma

Strong baked- Strong baked - Strong baked -

Dough 2 832.4 bread arom bread aroma. bread aroma

Strong baked- Strong baked - Strong baked -

Dough 3 821.7 j bread aroma bread aroma bread aroma 10067] As shown in Table 4B. all of the dough samples had a strong baked-bread aroma after baking; no odor of paint, fish, or oxidized oil smell was detected in the baking room, in. the baking oven, or emanating from the breads,

(0068! The fatty acid profiles of the baked doughs prepared in this Example were measured as follows: Oil. was extracted from portions of the baked loaves (10 §) with isooctane (lOftmL). The isooctane was subjected to eenirifugation to separate the liquid and solid phases, and in accordance with a modified version of American Oil Chemist' s Society Official Method. AOCS Ce 2-66, aliquots of isooctane including extracted oils ( 10 ml.) are treated to convert

acylglycerois to fatty acid .methyl esters ("FAMEs") and vials of the FAMEs are placed n a gas eSiromatograph for analysis in. accordance with American Oil Chemist's Society Official Method AOCS Ce 1 h-05. This chromatography employs an Agilent 7890A gas chramatograph (Agilent Technologies, Santa Clara, CA.) equipped with a fused silica capillary column (1.00m x 0.25mm and 0,2ϋμηι film thickness) packed, with ηοα-bonded, polybiscyanopropyl siloxane (Supelco Aiiaiytical, Bellefonte, PA), Hydrogen (Hj) is used as the carrier gas at a flow rate of 1.0 mUmirt and the column temperature is isothermal at 180 ^f 'C.

Table 4C. Fatty Acid Profile of Oils Extracted from Baked Dou hs

10069] As shown in Table 4C the baked breads made with doughs including DHA/EPA canoia 10 oil and DHA/EPA canoia 13 oil contai DMA. EPA, nd DPA _S VLC mega-3 PUFAs. Surprisingly, as shown in Table 4B, the baked breads including DHA/EPA canoia .1 oil and DHA/EPA canoia 1.3 oil had ihe same favorable "strong baked -bread aroma" as the bread prepared with canoia oil that did not include VLC Omega-3 PUFAs.

[0070] Breads prepared according to the methods of this Example have an estimated product shelf life of at least, about 21 days at 22 ^C C. Surprisingly, the white bread samples including DHA/EPA canoia 10 oil and DHA/EPA canoia 13 oil did not exhibit off aromas, e.g,, painty, fishy, or oxidized oil aroma, and were comparable to bread prepared with canoia oil that did not include VLC Omega-3 PUFAs during shelfiife tests conducted at ambient temperature (about 22 °C) for 21 days.

Example 5. OS! Values of CV80 and D16EPA Canoia Oil Blends

[0071 j CLEAR VALLEY 80-brand canoia oil ("CV80" in Table 5 A) was combined with varying amounts of a canoia oil including 16% EPA ("D16EPA"), as set forth in Table 5 A. The OSI value at 1 \ (PC for each of these blends was measured without any added antioxidants. The results of the OSf tests are set forth in Table 58.

Table SA. CV80 and D EPA Cano!a Oil BJeiids

Table 58. OSI Test at 1.10°C Results for CVSO and D16EPA Blends

Example 6, Food Products including DHA/EPA Canola 10 and DHA/EPA Cano!al3

Bars

[0072) Fruit and nut bars were prepared using the ingredients listed in Table 6A. For each bar, one of three different oils was used: pressed canola oil with maximum 3,5% a-linoletiic acid ("Pressed Cauda Oil. ⁵ '; Cargi.1l, Incorporated, Wayxaia, Minnesota, USA); DHA EPA canola 10 from ^' Example 3; and DHA/EPA canola 13 from Example 3.

Fruit ami Nut Bar ingredients

Prep r ik Pr cess:

1. Mi dry ingredients together in a bowl.

2. Heat binder ingredients (except vanilla extract) in a pot to 1 0°F.

(Use a small stainless pot inside a larger stainless pot filled with boiling water,)

3. Add vanilla extract to binder ingredients and mix to incorporate.

4. Combine binder and dry ingredients.

5. Mix until well incorporated.

6. Sheet onto bar pan and roll with rolling pi« until compressed. ΙΘ 73| Stability Testing: The bars were subjected to stability testing at 22 °C ₅ 40°C, and 60 ^* C as follows: bars were individually packaged in foil packaging (industry typical) and placed in chambers heated to 22 ^C C, 40 "C, and 60X, without light and humidity control. For testing, the samples were taken from the chambers, conditioned to room . temperature for 2 hours, then evaluated by an expert panel (n~3). Sensory panelists use a 10-po.tnt scale (pass/fail; 1 is the lowest score) where a score of 10 is a clean/bland aroma and pass, a score of 7 is tire minimum score to pass, and a score of less than 7 is fail and provide comments describing off notes or positive attributes of the sample tested. Time points for different temperatures: for 22 °C samples were evaluated monthly, at 40 °C samples were evaluated weekly, and at 60 °C samples were evaluated every three days,

(0074J Sample tests at 22 °C represent real-time shelf life determinations, whereas accelerated temperature tests at 40 ' ³ C and 60 ^C C allow for the estimation of longer shelf life at ambient temperatures. For example, one day of sample storage at 40 ^C C corresponds to about 2.5 days of sample storage at 22 "C, and one day of sample storage at 60 ^a C corresponds to about 30 days of sample storage at 22 °C

0075} Results of the sensory panel data for bar samples subjected to accelerated stability testing at 40' ^' 'C are summarised in Table 6B. Results of the sensory panel data for bar samples subjected to accelerated stability testing at 60°C are summarized in Table 6C.

6B, Fruit and Nut Bars Accelerated Stability Testing 40°C Sensory Panel Data

Pass 8/10

DHA/EPA J Fail 4/10 Fail l /.i

Pass 1.0/10 Pass 0/10 Slightly

(. aoohi 13 Rancid Rancid- earthy

DHA/EPA

„ Pass 9/10 Fail 6/10 Fail 1/10 Canoia 13 with Pass 10/10 _r . , Pass 9/1

barthv Rancid Rancid Antioxidant*

*R.Qsemary/ci.rie acid antioxidant blend, about 0.1 g antioxidant/30.0 g oil

* Rosemary/citric acid antioxidant blend, about 0.1 g antioxidant/30.0 g oil

JO076] As the data show, bars prepared using DHA EPA Canoia 10 and DHA/EPA Canoia 13 showed surprising stability. This is significant because oil products that are currently commercially available typically require sealed freezer or refrigeration storage or double encapsulation for stability. This Example demonstrates that a DHA/EPA canoia oil can provide satisfactory sensory performance without encapsulation or lower temperatures when used as an oil as well as when used as an ingredient in food applications.

Crackers

\m ⁾ 77] KROGER THIN AND CRISPY S ALT1NES (Kroger Co., Cincinnati, OH . USA) were sprayed -with various oils and subjected to accelerated stability testing.

[0978} Method of coating crackers with oil:

1. Use unsalted craekers-300 grams crackers per batch-approximately 94 crackers.

2. Line crackers on table over plastic wrap.

3. Measure oil into small sprayer bottle (about 30 grams oil).

(Note: measured treatments into spray bottles flushed with N _; > and stored in refrigerator until use.)

4. Put spray bottles with oil into 40' ^J C oven until warm to help disperse oil droplets.

5. Spray crackers with oil

fx Allow crackers to air dry for at least 30 minutes.

7. Store treated crackers in refrigerator at 4 X in Coming Ware, crackers stacked inside.

10079] Stability Testing: Crackers were placed in amber bottles for 60°C tests and in foil packages (industry typical) for ambient temperature testing at 22°C. The test were conducted without light and humidity control. For testing, the samples were taken from the chambers, conditioned to room temperature for 2 hours, then evaluated by an expert panel (n ^::: 3).

Sensory panelists use a !O-poiut scale (pass/fail; i is the lowest score) where a score of 10 is a clean bland aroma and pass, a score of 7 is the minimum score to pass, and a score of less than 7 is fail and provide comments describing off notes or positive attributes of the sample tested. Time points for different temperatures; for 22 ^~ C samples were evaluated monthly and at 60 °C samples were evaluated every three days.

[0080] Sample tests at 22 °C represent real-time shelf life determinations, whereas accelerated temperature tests f>0 °C allow for the estimation of longer shelf life at ambient temperatures. For example, one day of sample storage at 60 °C corresponds to about 30 days of sampl e storage at 22 X.

[0081 J The following oils and oil blends were used to prepare sprayed cracker applications: MASTER CHEF Soybean Oil (Cargiil, Incorporated, Wayzata, MN, USA), DHA EPA Canola 1 from Example 3, DHA/EPA Canoia 13 from Example 3, and a pressed canola oil with maximum 3.5% ct-Hnolenic acid ("Pressed Canola Oil"; Cargill, Incorporated, Wayxata, Minnesota, USA). Weights of crackers and oils for sample preparation are shown, in Table 6D.

6D. Weights of Crackers and Sprayed

Oil:

* Approximately 0.3 wt% rosemary/citric aci d antioxidan t blend in oil

(0082] Results of the sensory panel data for cracker samples subjected to accelerated stability testing at 60°C are summarized in Table 6E.

6 E Crackers Accelerated Stability Testing 60°C Sensory Panel Data

* Approximately 0.3 wt% rosemary/citric acid antioxidant blend in oil

[0083] As the data show, crackers prepared using DM A EPA Canoia 10 and DHA/EPA Canoia 13 demonstrate surprising stability.

Ready-io-Eai Cereal

10084] CHEE IOS ready-to~eat cereal (General Mills Inc., Minneapolis, MN, USA) is coated with various oils and subjected, to accelerated stability testing. For CHEERIOS sample, one of three different oils was used: pressed canoia oil with maximum 3 ,5% a-linolenie acid ("Pressed Canoia Oil"; Cargi!L Incorporated, Wayzata, Minnesota, USA); DHA/EPA canoia 10 from Example 3; and DHA/EPA canoia 13 from Example 3.

[0085] Method of Coating Ready-io-Eat Cereal ;

1. Weigh 300 grams of CHEERIOS ready~to-eat cereal,

2. Measure oil into small sprayer bottle (about 30 grams oil).

(Note: measured treatments into spray bottles flashed with _; » and stored in refrigerator until use.)

3. Put spray bottles with oil into 40°C oven until warm to help disperse oil droplets.

4. Put CHEERIOS into ^' Vanguard mixer (set at 28,2 r/mm), spray oil into mixer until thoroughly mixed.

[0086] Stability Tenting: CHEERIOS were placed in amber bottles for 60°C tests and in foil packages (industry typical) for ambient temperature testing at 22 ^C' C, The test were conducted without light and humidity control For testing, the samples were taken from the chambers, conditioned to room temperature for 2 hours, then evaluated by an expert panel (n ^::: 3). Sensor panelists use a 10-poini scale {pass/fail; 1 is the lowest score) where a score of 1 is a clean/bland aroma and pass, a score o 7 is the minimum score to pass, and a score of less than 7 is fail and. provide comments describing off notes or positive attributes of the sample tested. Time points for different temperatures: for 22 °C samples were evaluated monthly and at 60 °C samples were evaluated every three days.

[0087] Sample tests at 22 ^'3 C represent real-time shelf life determinations, whereas accelerated, temperature tests 60 °C allow for the estimation of longer shelf life at ambient temperatures. For example, one day of sample storage at 60 ^S C corresponds to about 30 days of sample storage at 22 °C.

j W)88J Weights of CHEERIOS and oils for sample preparation are shown in Table 6F.

Table 6F, Weights of CHEERIOS and Sprayed Oil:

* Approximately 0.3 t% rosemary/citric acid antioxidant blend in oil

(008 J Results of the sensory panel data for CHEERiOS cereal samples subjected to accelerated stability testing at 60°C are summarized in Table 6G.

Table 6G. CHEERIOS Accelerated Stability Testing 60°C

Sensory Panel Data

Pass Faii Fail Fail Fail

Fishy Rancid

DHA/EPA Cano!alO

Pass Pass Fail Fail. Faii

DHA/EPA CanolalO

Low Fishy/ Rancid

with

Green No Painty

Antioxidant

Crude

Pass Faii Fail Faii Faii

Fishy Rancid

DHA/EPA Canola 13

Pass Pass Faii

DHA/EPA Canola 13 Faii Faii

Slightly Fishy Rancid

with

Antioxidant Fishy

(0090) As the data show, ready-to~eai cereal prepared using DHA EPA canola 10 and DHA/EPA canola 13 demonstrate surprising stability.

Maj ms

[00911 Muffin mix was prepared using the ingredients listed in Table 6H. For each batch of muffins, one of two different oils was used: pressed canola oil with maximum 3.5% a- linolenic acid ("Pressed Canola Oil"; Cargtlt Incorporated, Wayzata, Minnesota, USA) and DHA/EPA canola 10 from Example 3.

Table fell. Muffin Reci e

Method of preparing Muffins:

1 . Cream shortening on setting 2 for 5 mim.rt.es with a KITCHEN AID Professional 6 .mixer (Whirlpool Corporation, Benton. Harbor, Mi, USA).

2. Add salt while stirring.

3. Add eggs one by one and vanilla.

4. Mix flours together in bowl.

5. Add i/2 of mixed flour sod 1 /2 of milk.

6. Add remaining flour and milk to mix and stir for a total of 4 minutes.

?. Split muffin mix into four batches of about 6 grams.

8. Add oil (about 28 g) to muffin mix batch (600 g) and mix using a KITCHEN AID

Professional 6 mixer (Whirlpool Corporation, Benton Harbor, Ml, USA).

9. Divide baiter into 12 muffins (into paper-lined muffin wrap in muffin tin).

10. Bake muffins at 350 ^¾ F for .about. 22 minutes.

ΪΘ092) The DHA + EPA content in the food products prepared as described above is shown in Table 61.

Table 61, DMA and EPA Content in Example 6 Food Products

f{M)93] Estimates of food product shelf lives for food products prepared in Example 6 are listed in table 61.

&L Estimated Food Product Shelf Life

Product DRA÷BPA eano!a oil 1 DHA+ EPA canola oil with

1 Rosemary/Ascorbic Acid

Fruit and Nut Bars 6 mo 1 3 mo

Cereal 1 mo 1 3 mo

Crackers 1 mo 1 3 mo

White Bread 21 day 1 21 day j

Muffins 21 day | 21 day j Summary

[0994) DHA+EPA. canola oil can deliver at least six months shelf stability at ambient temperature without antioxidant added in a Frtrit and Nut Bars application.

[0095} DHA+EPA cauola oil can deliver at least one month shelf stability at ambient temperature without AO added in crackers and cereal applications.

(0996] Oxidation stability and sensory performance of DHA÷EPA canola oil can be improved by addition of a rosemary/ascorbic acid antioxidant blend to the oil and can deliver at least three months of shelf stability ai ambient temperature in crackers and cereal applications,

[9997) DHA+EPA. canola oil with or without rosemary/ascorbic acid antioxidant blend can be used as ingredient for bakery applications (for example, breads and muffins) and deliver typical {i.e., 21 day) product shelf stability at ambient temperature.

Example ?. Beverages ncluding DBA/EPA Canola Oil

Milk-Based Beverages

[9998] Milk-based beverages are prepared using commercially ^available milk, including: a whole milk, a 2% reduced-fat. milk, a 1% reduced-fat milk, and a skimmed milk f 'fat-free" milk). Three different oils are combined with the milk samples to form milk-based beverages: CLEAR VALLEY 80-brand ("CV80") canola oil (Cargtll, incorporated, Wayzata, Minnesota, USA); a canola oil including about 9. wt% combined DHA, EPA, and DP A ("DHA EPA canola 9"); and DHA/EPA canola 9 including about 3,000ppm of a rosemary/citric acid antioxidant blend ("DA!i/EPA canola 9ΪΓ).

[9999} Preparation ofMUk-Bme f Beverages: Oil is added to a milk sample followed by mixing for about. 15 minutes with a Waring Heavy Duty Food Blender (Conair Corporation, East Windsor, New Jersey, USA) on the highest setting to provide a milk-based beverage. For oils that include DHA and EPA, sufficient oil is added to the milk sample such that the miik-based beverage includes greater than 32 nig servnig DHA - EPA. ^' The milk -based beverage is heated at about 140 °F (about 60 °C) and is subjected to sonication at about 2,500 psi in a Qsonica sonicator (Qsonica, LLC, Newtown, CT, USA). The milk-based beverage is heated to about 190 °F (about 88 °C) and held at thai temperature for about 90 seconds. The milk-based beverage is allowed to cool to about 55 °F (about 13 °C). The cooled miik-based beverage is transferred asepiica!ly to sterilized amber bottle which are stored under refrigeration at 4 *€. ίθθίίΐθ} The milk-based beverages are tested by an expert panel (n-4) for aroma, with a focus on painty and fishy notes, immediately following preparation ("Time 0 ^5> ) and after one week of storage at 4 °C ("Time 1 Week"). Sensory panelists use a I0-point scale (I is the lowest score) where a score of 10 is a clean milk aroma and pass, a score of 7 is the minimum score to pass, and a score of less than 7 is fail.

[O i il Results of the sensory panel data for milk-based beverages are summarized in Tables 7A and 7B.

7Λ. Sensory Panel Results for Milk-Based Beverages at Time 0

7B, Sensory Panel Results for Milk-Based Beverages at Time 1 Week

ίθ0ίί)2| A.s the data in Tables 7A and 7B show, DHA+EPA canola oil, either with or without added antioxidant, caa deliver at least one week stability at 4 °C when used in a .milk- based beverage.

Chocolate-Fi ww Milk-Based Beverage

J i>0103J Chocolate-flavored milk-based beverages are prepared using the .formulations in. Table 7C with oils as described above for milk-based beverages. For formulations having oils thai include DHA and EPA, sufficient oil is added to the milk sach that the milk beverage includes greater than 32 mg serving DHA +EPA.

Table 7C. Chocolate-Flavored Milk-Based Beverage Formulations

(001Θ4] Preparation of Chacoiaie-Ftovared MilfcBased Beverages: Milk is weighed and placed in a container. To the milk is added AUB YGEL carrageenan (Cargill, Incorporated,

Wayzata, Minnesota, USA) with stirring to provide a. milk mixture. The granulated sugar

(Cargill, Incorporated, Wayzata, Minnesota, USA), SANALAC non-fat dried milk (Saco Foods

Inc., Middleton, W ^' l, USA), cocoa powder mix (Cargill, Incorporated, Wayzata, Minnesota,

USA), and. sodium chloride (Cargill, Incorporated, Wayzata, Minnesota, USA) are combined with mixing to provide a dry ingredients mixture. The dry ingredients mixture is added to the milk mixture with stirring for about 15 minutes with a Waring Heavy Duty Food Blender (Conair Corporation, East Windsor, New Jersey, USA.) on the lowest setting to provide a blended mixture. To the blended mixture is added the oil and natural vanillin (Kerry Group Pic, Ireland) followed by mixing for about 15 minutes with a Waring Heavy Duty Food Blender (Conair Corporation, East Windsor, New Jersey, USA) on (he highest setting to provide a chocolate- flavored milk-based beverage. The chocolate-flavored, milk-based beverage is heated to about 1.90 *F (about 88 ) and held at that temperature for about 90 seconds. The chocolate-flavored milk-based beverage is allowed, to cool t about 55 °F (about 13 °C). The cooled mixture is transferred asepticaily to sterilized amber bottle which are stored under refrigeration at 4 ^C' C.

J 08185} The chocolate- flavored milk-based beverages are tested by an. expert panel (n=4) for aroma, with a focus on painiy and fishy n.oies, immediately following preparation ("Time 0") and after one week of storage at 4 °C ("Time 1 Week"). Sensory panelists use a 10-point scale ( 1 is the lowest score) where a score of 10 is a clean chocolate milk aroma and pass, a score of 7 is the minimum score to pass, and a score of less than 7 is fail

[00:106} Results of the sensory panel data for chocolate-flavored milk-based beverages are summarized in Table 7D.

71 . Sensory Panel Results for Chocolate-Flavored Milk-Based Beverages at Time 0 mid

Time Ϊ Week

(00107} As the data in Table 7D show, DH.A+EPA canola oil, either with or without added antioxidant, can deliver at least one week stability at °C when used in a chocolate milk beverage. Meal Replacement/Supplement Beverage

[00] 08] Meal replacementfsupplernent beverages are prepared using the formulations in Table 7E and oils as described above for milk-based beverages. For formulations having oils that include DBA and EPA, sufficient oil is added io the beverage such that the beverage includes greater than 32 mg servmg DH A +EPA.

Table 7E. Meal Repiacemeiit Suppiemeat Beverage Formulations

[001091 Preparation of Meal Replacement/Supplement Beverage: The water for carrageenan is heated to about 1.70 °C. The AUBYGEL carrageenan (CargtH, incorporated, Wayzata, Minnesota, USA) is added to the heated water with stirring for about 15 minutes in a Waring Heavy Duty Food Blender (Conair Corporation, East Windsor, ew Jersey, USA) on the lowest setting until the carrageenan is fully hydraied. The carrageenan solution is added to the batch water with stirring for about 5 minutes until a homogeneous mixture is formed. The milk protein concentrate is added to the mixture with stirring for about 5 minutes until homogeneous. The cane sugar and corn syrup solids are then added, with stirring for about 5 minutes in a.

Waring Heavy Duty Food Blender (Conair Corporation, East Windsor, New Jersey, USA) o the lowest setting. The CV80 oil is heated to about 120 °F (about 49 °C) and to the heated CV80 is added lecithin with stirring for about 5 minutes until the lecithin CV80 mixture is homogenous. The 1ecnhin/CV8Q mixture is added to the aqueous mixture with stirring fo about 5 minutes in a Waring Heavy Duty Food Blender (Conair Corporation, East Windsor, New Jersey, USA) on the lowest setting. To the aqueous mixture is added the DHA/EPA canola oil with stirring for about 5 minutes in a Waring Heavy Duty Food Blender (Conair Corporation, East Windsor, New

Jersey, USA) on the .lowest setting. Next, the vitamin mineral pre-mix (Royal DSM, Heer!en, Netherlands) is added to the mixture with stirring for about 5 minutes in a Waring Heavy Duty Food Blender (Conair Corporation, Bast Windsor, New Jersey, USA) on (he lowest setting.

Finally, the vanilla ^' flavor is added to (he mixture with stirring for about 5 minutes in a Waring Heavy Duty Food Blender (Conair Corporation, East Windsor, New Jersey, USA) on the lowest settin to provide the meal replacement/supplement beverage.

(00110| The meal rep!acement<'supp!ement beverage is heated to about 190 °F (about 88 °C) and held at that temperature for about 90 seconds. The meal replacement/supplement beverage is allowed to cool to about 55 °F (about 13 °C). The cooled meal replacement-'sttpplement beverage is transferred asepticaliy to sterilized amber bottle which are stored under reirsgeration at 4 ⁿ C.

(0OJ 1 1 The meal replacement/supplement beverages are tested by an expert panel (n~4) for aroma, with a focus on painty and fishy notes, immediately following preparation ("Time ϋ' ^" ) and. after .16 days of storage at 4 *C {'Time 16 Days")- Sensory panelists use a 10-point scale ( 1 is the lowest score) where a score of 10 is a clean aroma having no off-aroma notes (e.g., fishy, painty, grassy, oxidized an pass, a score of 7 is the minimum score to pass, and. a score of less than 7 is fail.

d01 ^' J 2} Results of the sensory pane! data for the meal replacement/supplement beverages are summarized in Table 7F.

7F. Sensory Panel Results for Meal Replacement/Supplement Beverage at Time Θ and

1001)31 As the data in. Table 7F show, DI i- EPA cao.oia oil, either with or without added antioxidant, can deliver at least 16 days of stability at 4 °C when used in a meal

replaceraent/sujjpieraent beverage.

[Ml 1.4} Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words "comprise," "comprising,* and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in a sense of "including, but not limited to." Words using tire singular or plural number also include the plural or singular number respectively. When the claims use the word, "or" in reference to a list of two or more items, that word covers all of the following interpretation of the word: any of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list.

} 00115} The above detailed descriptions of embodiments of the invention are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed above. Although specific embodiments of and examples tor, the invention are described above for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the invention, as those skilled i the relevant art will recognize. For example, while steps are presented in a gi ven order, alternative embodiments may perform steps in a different order. The various embodiments described herein can also be combined to provide further embodiments.

[00)16] in general, the terms used in the claims should not be construed to limit the invention to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification, unless the above detailed description explicitly defines such terms.