Extraction Yield and Physicochemical Quality of Artisanal Palm Oil Produced in Koba–Totema, Guinea

Abstract

This study investigated the production performance and physicochemical characteristics of palm oil obtained through artisanal processing in Koba–Totema, Boffa (Republic of Guinea). Eight independent processing batches involving 80 mature oil palm fruit bunches were carried out under traditional extraction conditions. Extraction efficiency was estimated as the percentage ratio between the mass of oil obtained and the mass of processed fruits. The physicochemical quality of the oil was evaluated using standard analytical methods. Moisture content and insoluble impurities were determined by gravimetric techniques, while peroxide value was measured by iodometric titration and expressed in meq O<sub>2</sub>/kg of oil. Acid value was determined by titration with potassium hydroxide (KOH) and expressed in mg KOH/g of oil according to standard calculation procedures. The average extraction yield was 16%, reflecting a moderate but relatively stable extraction performance. Mean values recorded for moisture content, peroxide value, acid value, and insoluble impurities were 0.43 ± 0.26%, 13.05 ± 1.92 meq O<sub>2</sub>/kg, 12.47 ± 9.94 mg KOH/g, and 2.74 ± 2.14%, respectively. While extraction yields remained fairly consistent across batches, notable variations were observed in chemical quality parameters. These differences appear to be mainly related to variations in clarification, dehydration, and filtration practices during artisanal processing. Overall, the results highlight the importance of improving post-extraction handling and processing practices to enhance the chemical stability and quality of artisanal palm oil.