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Description
Camelina (Camelina sativa L) is a drought-tolerant oilseed crop valued for its short vegetative period and adaptability to low-quality soil. Its seeds contain 30–50% oil, rich in high polyunsaturated fatty acids (40-60%), and bioactive compounds such as phytosterols, tocopherols, carotenoids, chlorophylls, and phenolic compounds. Although these components contribute to the nutritional and functional quality of the oil, they can also affect its oxidative stability. This study aimed to evaluate the oxidative stability of oil obtained from two camelina genotypes (NS Slatka and NS Zlatka) grown at two locations in Serbia (Pančevo and Rimski šančevi) and to examine its correlation with β-carotene and chlorophyll content. The oxidative stability of the oil was evaluated using the Schaal Oven test. The peroxide value was determined at the beginning of test and after 4 and 8 days of incubation, while the β-caroten and chlorophyll contents were measured initially and after 4 days. All oil samples showed a progressive increase in peroxide value, ranging from 25.84 to 29.20 meq O₂/kg after 4 days and from 51.71 to 69.06 meq O₂/kg after 8 days, indicating intensive oxidation. Both genotype and growing location significantly influenced oxidative stability (p<0.05). Higher peroxide values were recorded in genotype NS Zlatka (37.10 and 69.06 meq O2/kg) compared to NS Slatka (29.20 and 54.36 meq O2/kg) as well as in oils from both genotypes grown at the Rimski šančevi site. A decrease in pigment content accompanied the increase in peroxide value. Oils with higher initial β-caroten and chlorophyll levels generally exhibited greater stability, although this relationship was not consistent in all samples. The results highlight the influence of genotype and environmental conditions on the oxidative stability of camelina oil and underline the importance of natural pigments in maintaining oil quality during storage. These findings provide valuable insights for breeding programs aimed at developing camelina varieties with improved oil stability and quality.
Keywords: Camelina sativa, oil , oxidative stability, β-carotene, chlorophyll, peroxide value, genotype, growing location
