1. Introduction
Ostrich (
Struthio camelus), a member of the ratite family, holds the distinction of being the largest flightless bird native to Africa and is renowned for laying the largest eggs. It possesses a small head, long neck, and large legs (
Figure 1). Consequently, it is unable to fly but is an adept runner. Generally found in arid countries, ostriches sustain themselves on a diet of fruits, juicy plants, and tiny insects [
1]. Currently, there are more than 5,000 ostrich farms worldwide, including those in Australia, Argentina, Botswana, Brazil, France, Israel, Namibia, Spain, England, the United States of America, and Thailand [
2]. All parts of ostriches find extensive use in various products, such as clothing, gloves, shoes, and handbags. Ostrich meat, known for its high protein content and low fat, is ideal for preparing healthy steaks and sausages. Additionally, ostrich oil is derived from the adipose tissues of the abdominal cavities and subcutaneous areas of the breasts and backs of ostriches. This oil, rich in potential, can be used as active ingredients in cosmetics [
1].
The common methods employed for preparing ostrich oil include dry rendering and wet rendering [
3]. Dry rendering is the most frequently used process in households, involving the direct heating of raw adipose tissues. The resulting oil product carries a distinctive scent from protein denaturation, and the intensity of its color depends on the temperature. In the wet rendering process, adipose tissues are melted through indirect heating using a double boiler or steaming cooker. The oil produced from wet rendering generally exhibits higher quality compared to that from dry rendering [
4]. Low-temperature rendering is a specialized process utilized to extract oil from ostrich adipose tissues at lower temperatures compared to traditional rendering methods. The aim is to minimize heat exposure, preserving the quality of the oil, especially when dealing with oils sensitive to high temperatures. In the case of ostrich oil, low-temperature rendering may involve gently heating the ostrich adipose tissues to extract the oil without reaching temperatures that could cause degradation or alteration of the oil’s beneficial properties. The specific temperature range can vary, but generally, it is kept below the typical temperatures used in conventional rendering methods [
5]. Low-temperature rendering is often preferred for oils containing heat-sensitive compounds, such as essential fatty acids and other bioactive components (carotenoids, tocopherol, and flavones) [
6]. This method helps retain the nutritional and cosmetic properties of the oil, making it suitable for various applications, including cosmetic and skincare products.
The stability of fats and oils is primarily compromised by rancidity, making it the most critical quality parameter. Rancidity results from chemical changes in oils, where the structures of oil components are degraded through chemical reactions or lipase activities, giving rise to undesirable odors and flavors [
7]. There are two major pathways for rancidification: hydrolysis and oxidation. Hydrolytic rancidity stems from hydrolysis reactions, wherein triacylglycerols undergo hydrolysis with lipase and water, leading to the formation of free fatty acids and glycerols. Triacylglycerols with short-chain fatty acids (6-12 carbon atoms) typically produce off-flavors [
8]. On the other hand, oxidative rancidity involves the degradation of double bonds in unsaturated fatty acids by oxygen in the air. Lipid oxidation follows a free radical reaction with three major steps: initiation, propagation, and termination. The resulting products of oxidative rancidity include hydrocarbons, aldehydes, alcohols, and volatile ketones [
9]. The oxidation of oils is influenced by various factors such as heat, light, fatty acid composition, and metals. Adding antioxidants can effectively decrease the rate of lipid oxidation. Oxygen plays a crucial role in causing lipid oxidation and subsequent rancidity. Light acts as a catalyst for lipid oxidation, and an increase in temperature accelerates the rate of this process. Therefore, it is recommended to pack oil under vacuum or displace oxygen with inert gases such as nitrogen or carbon dioxide, store it in a cool place, and protect it from light. In addition, certain heavy metals like copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), and chromium (Cr) can increase the rate of lipid oxidation. As a result, it is advisable to prepare and store oil in containers made of stainless steel or nonmetallic materials, such as plastic, glass, and ceramic [
10].
The physicochemical properties of ostrich oil, including the peroxide value (PV), acid value (AV), iodine value (IV), saponification value (SV), and refractive index (RI), serve as crucial metrics for assessing oil quality. Monitoring these properties is essential to prevent the consumption of deteriorated oil. PV is employed to gauge the rate of lipid oxidation reactions. Oils with a high degree of unsaturation are particularly prone to oxidative rancidity, making PV a key indicator. A lower PV signifies better oil quality. The AV measures the concentration of free fatty acids in the oil, derived from the hydrolysis of triacylglycerols. A high AV suggests that the oil is prone to becoming rancid [
11]. IV is utilized to ascertain the unsaturation level in fatty acids by adding iodine atoms to double bonds. A higher IV indicates a greater presence of double bonds in unsaturated fatty acids. SV reflects the average molecular weight of all fatty acids in the oil. Oils with long-chain fatty acids exhibit a lower SV due to fewer carboxylic groups per unit mass of oil. RI reflects oil purity and is related to the change in the angle of a light ray passing through the oil. This index is influenced by temperature and the structures of the oil components. Each oil has a distinct refractive index [
12]. The heavy metal content in oils, particularly arsenic (As) and lead (Pb), is critical for assessing toxicity to human health. Copper (Cu) and iron (Fe) can enhance oil oxidation. Heavy metal content is determined using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), wherein the sample is ionized by inductively coupled plasma, and the separated metal ions are quantified individually using a mass spectrometer [
13].
Ostrich oil is predominantly composed of triacylglycerols and essential fatty acids, with a notable presence of oleic acid (omega-9), linoleic acid (omega-6), and linolenic acid (omega-3). The quantity of unsaturated fatty acids in ostrich oil is contingent upon the type and content of fatty acids present in the feedstuff [
14,
15]. Numerous studies affirm the elevated levels of essential fatty acids, encompassing omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9, in ostrich oil. Omega-3 fatty acids, constituting long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids with chain lengths of 18 to 22 carbons and a double bond at the third carbon from the chain’s end, are a distinctive component. As the human body cannot synthesize omega-3 fatty acids autonomously, their inclusion in the diet is imperative for maintaining good health. These fatty acids confer various health benefits, such as regulating normal metabolism, enhancing heart health, preventing cardiovascular diseases, and influencing brain function and the nervous system. Furthermore, omega-3 fatty acids can undergo conversion into docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), essential for the normal development and function of the brain, particularly in infants. Beyond this, omega-3 fatty acids contribute to improving skin health by reducing UV-induced photo damage, preventing premature skin aging, and mitigating skin inflammation [
15,
16,
17]. Omega-6 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids distinguished by the positioning of the first double bond at the sixth carbon from the end of the omega chain. These acids have the capacity to undergo conversion into gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and arachidonic acid (ARA). A noteworthy finding in the report indicates that the intake of a high dose of GLA supplements significantly alleviates symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis. ARA plays a crucial role in producing pro-inflammatory eicosanoids, contributing to the immune system’s inflammatory response. Moreover, when omega-6 is combined with omega-3, a synergistic effect emerges, offering various health advantages. This includes the reduction of symptoms associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the lowering of blood pressure, a decreased risk of heart disease, and support for bone health. Maintaining an appropriate ratio of consumed omega-6 to omega-3 is pivotal for optimizing health benefits, and it is recommended to keep this ratio below 5:1. Specifically concerning skin health, this combination can restore the skin barrier function and effectively diminish scaling on the skin [
18,
19]. Oleic acid, a monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid, is present in ostrich oil, with a double bond located at the ninth carbon atom from the omega end of the fatty acid molecule. Unlike essential fatty acids, oleic acid is not considered essential because the human body can synthesize it in the presence of sufficient omega-3 or omega-6 fatty acids. Omega-9 fatty acids, including oleic acid, offer numerous health benefits, such as promoting heart health, maintaining balanced cholesterol levels, enhancing immune function, and improving skin health [
14,
17,
20]. Several studies have demonstrated that ostrich oil, comprising omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 fatty acids, exhibits potential in reducing nerve pain, suppressing inflammation, treating conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and asthma, lowering blood pressure, decreasing the risk of heart disease, and protecting aging skin [
2,
6,
14,
15,
17,
19].
An emulsion is a biphasic system comprising two immiscible liquid phases. The dispersed phase, also known as the internal or discontinuous phase, is uniformly distributed as small globules throughout the continuous phase, referred to as the external or dispersion medium. The emulsion also includes an emulsifier, acting as the emulsifying agent. The emulsifier plays a crucial role in stabilizing the system and ensuring the acceptable shelf-life of the product by forming a thin film around the globules of the dispersed phase. This film decreases the interfacial tension between both phases and contributes to stabilizing the dispersed droplets through electrostatic or steric-hindrance effects [
21]. The molecular structure of an emulsifier consists of hydrophobic and hydrophilic parts. The emulsification efficiency of an emulsifier correlates with its chemical structure, physical properties, and solubility. The selection of emulsifiers depends on the characteristics of the final products, the chemical and physical attributes of each phase, the emulsion preparation methodology, the amount of emulsifier added, and the presence of other functional components in the emulsions [
22]. Emulsions can be classified based on the nature of the emulsion systems, including simple and multiple emulsions. Simple emulsions are divided into two types: 1) oil-in-water emulsion (O/W emulsion), where oil droplets disperse throughout the aqueous phase [
23]. This type is non-greasy, easy to remove from the skin, provides a cooling effect, and masks the unpleasant taste of oil. 2) Water-in-oil emulsion (W/O emulsion) involves the distribution of water globules in the continuous oil phase. It is greasy, not water-washable, and is suitable for external-use formulations. This type reduces moisture evaporation from the skin surface and has an occlusive effect by moistening the stratum corneum of the skin.
Edible oils are commonly formulated as O/W emulsions, where oil droplets disperse in an aqueous phase, offering several advantages in the formulation of edible oils. For decreasing greasy appearance, O/W emulsions effectively reduce the greasy appearance of oils, enhancing palatability and acceptability for consumption. This is particularly beneficial in food products where a less greasy texture is desired [
24]. For masking rancid taste, O/W emulsions can effectively conceal the rancid taste of oil, improving the overall sensory profile of the product. This is crucial for maintaining the flavor and quality of food items containing edible oils [
25]. For preventing oil rancidification, emulsifiers play a crucial role in forming a protective film around the oil droplets, acting as a barrier that shields the oil from exposure to oxygen and light. This protective mechanism significantly extends the shelf life of products containing edible oils [
26].
Emulsifiers, which play a vital role in stabilizing emulsions, undergo adsorption at the oil-water interface during the homogenization process. This adsorption actively reduces the surface tension between oil and water. The underlying mechanism involves emulsifiers forming a protective film around the oil droplets, offering defense against both oxygen and light [
27]. Moreover, emulsifiers play a crucial role in mitigating the flocculation (clumping together) and coalescence (merging) of oil droplets by inducing steric or electrostatic repulsions. This intricate process significantly contributes to maintaining the stability of the emulsion [
28]. Emulsifiers intended for use in oral preparations must meet specific criteria, being edible, odorless, tasteless, and compatible with the physicochemical characteristics of both phases. An example of a natural emulsifier suitable for such applications is soy lecithin, derived from soybeans, encompassing phospholipids, triglycerides, and various other substances. The primary phospholipids present include phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylinositol, and phosphatidic acid [
29]. Additionally, soy lecithin contains carbohydrates, pigments, sterols, and sterol glycosides. Lecithin, designated as INS 322 and E-number 322, serves as a food additive due to its emulsifying and lubricant properties. Beyond its functional role, soy lecithin also offers health benefits, such as cholesterol level and blood pressure control, support for brain and nervous system health, repair of damaged cell membranes, and promotion of overall cell function [
30].
To address physicochemical and compliance challenges associated with liquid emulsions, the development of dry emulsions is pursued for several compelling reasons. Dry emulsions, offering enhanced stability compared to their liquid counterparts, achieve this by removing water, thus minimizing the potential for chemical reactions and physical instability, such as phase separation or creaming, commonly observed in liquid emulsions over time. This absence of water also serves to create a protective environment for active ingredients sensitive to factors like light, heat, or oxygen, thereby mitigating the risk of degradation and ensuring a prolonged shelf life. Consequently, dry emulsions stand out for their ability to effectively preserve active ingredients [
31]. Moreover, dry emulsions prove advantageous in drug delivery systems, particularly for lipophilic or slightly-soluble drugs. The incorporation of a solid carrier facilitates the controlled and efficient delivery of these drugs. Being in a powdered or granulated form, dry emulsions are more manageable in terms of handling, transportation, and storage compared to their liquid counterparts. This attribute is particularly valuable in industries such as pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, where product logistics play a crucial role [
32]. Additionally, the convenience for consumers is enhanced with dry emulsions, as they eliminate the need for measuring and handling liquid formulations. This not only provides a more user-friendly option but also ensures compliance [
33]. Furthermore, the reduction or elimination of water in dry emulsions diminishes the necessity for preservatives, which are often required in liquid emulsions to prevent microbial growth in the water phase. These addresses concern related to potential side effects associated with preservatives, emphasizing the capacity of dry emulsions to reduce dependency on such additives [
34]. In summary, the development of dry emulsions aims to optimize the stability, efficacy, and overall user experience of emulsion-based products, particularly in the pharmaceutical industry, where these advantages play a pivotal role.
To tackle the challenges associated with the physicochemical properties and compliance commonly linked to liquid emulsions, the development of dry emulsions has been undertaken. Typically, these emulsions are formulated from O/W emulsions that incorporate a solid carrier within an aqueous phase, utilizing various methods such as rotary evaporation, freeze-drying, spray drying, and lyophilization [
35]. Dry emulsions present as lipid-based granules, facilitating the reconstitution of an O/W emulsion when introduced to an aqueous solution. They are particularly advantageous for lipophilic and slightly-soluble drugs or those prone to oxidation and light sensitivity [
36]. The simple preparation of dry emulsions is achieved by converting liquid O/W emulsions into dry powders through techniques that involve adsorption on solid carriers or adsorbents. However, a drawback arises when producing dry emulsions with high water content, as they require substantial amounts of adsorbents [
37,
38].
The careful selection of edible adsorbents for an oral administration system is critically important in the preparation of dry emulsions. Effective solid adsorbents typically require high physicochemical stability, a proper porous structure, high adsorption capacity, sustained/controlled-release properties, and a pleasant taste. Avicel
® PH-101, a microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) derived from the depolymerization of cellulose, is a tasteless, odorless crystalline powder with a particle size of around 50 µm. Widely employed as an adsorbent, excipient, anti-caking agent, disintegrating agent, and bulking agent in the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and other industries [
39], MCC exhibits favorable adsorbent properties for oral administration systems, including high water absorption, rapid disintegration, and chemical inertness. The advantages of Avicel
® PH-101 for wet granulation formulations [
40,
41] encompass rapid water adsorption and distribution throughout the mixture, reduced sensitivity to water content, high adsorptive capacity, increased drying efficiency, decreased color mottling, improved drug content uniformity, and enhanced tablet hardness at the same compression force with less friability. Aerosil
® 200, a hydrophilic fumed silica with a specific surface of 200 m
2/g [
42], is widely recognized for its versatile functionality as an effective adsorbent, thickening agent, and anti-caking agent in various applications. Its incorporation as an additive in food and pharmaceutical products is prevalent, aiming to enhance powder flowability, diminish caking tendencies, boost productivity, and prolong storage stability. In the specific domain of dry emulsions, Aerosil
® 200 serves as a valuable adsorbent, facilitating the conversion of liquid emulsions into dry or powder forms. Leveraging its high surface area and porous structure, it adeptly adsorbs liquids and stabilizes emulsion components during the drying process. Noteworthy characteristics and applications include its substantial surface area, providing ample sites for adsorption of liquids and other substances, efficient liquid adsorption for the creation of a dry, stable emulsion, anti-agglomeration properties that prevent caking of powders, thereby enhancing flowability and stability. Furthermore, Aerosil
® 200 exhibits the capability to function as a thickening or rheology control agent in formulations [
42,
43,
44,
45,
46]. In terms of potential applications, dry emulsions containing various edible oils find widespread use in dietary supplement products [
47].
In the pharmaceutical and food industries, emulsions are commonly utilized to improve the palatability of edible oils and enhance their effectiveness by facilitating controlled dosage [
48]. Numerous studies have demonstrated that incorporating edible oils in O/W emulsions administered orally can enhance the absorption and bioavailability of poorly water-soluble oils [
49,
50]. Dry emulsions represent a novel oral drug delivery system for sustained release, known for their simplicity in preparation and ease of transport. Typically, Avicel
® PH-101 and Aerosil
® 200 serve as solid adsorptive materials or adsorbents for liquid active pharmaceutical ingredients, particularly emulsions containing edible oils. The crucial property of the adsorbent lies in its oil absorption capacity and cumulative percent of oil released [
42]. The dry powder is prepared through a straightforward mixing process and can be easily redispersed to form reconstituted emulsions. Solid oral dosage forms like tablets and capsules, known for their ease of swallowing, are preferred. Therefore, the resulting powders or granules of dry emulsions should be compressed into tablets or filled into hard gelatin capsules [
46,
51]. Currently, dry adsorbed emulsions containing edible oils have been developed and evaluated for percent weight loss after oil release and stability, suggesting that dry emulsions offer a viable oral drug delivery method for edible oils.
This study involved extracting ostrich oil from the adipose tissues of the ostrich bird using a low-temperature wet rendering process, specifically designed to preserve omega fatty acids. The lipid profile of the resulting ostrich oil underwent thorough analysis through gas chromatography with a flame ionization detector (GC-FID). Furthermore, the antioxidant activity of the ostrich oil was evaluated. A significant challenge associated with ostrich oil is its susceptibility to oxidative and hydrolytic rancidity, leading to undesirable odors and flavors [
52]. To address this issue, O/W emulsions containing ostrich oil were developed, with emulsifiers playing a crucial role in forming a protective film around oil droplets, shielding them from the detrimental effects of oxygen and light exposure [
53]. Lecithin, a renowned emulsifier, was carefully selected for its capacity to create extremely stable emulsions, aiming to produce stable, high-quality emulsions suitable for the production of dry emulsion [
54]. Dry emulsions, derived from liquid O/W emulsions, emerged as a promising strategy for delivering lipophilic and slightly soluble substances, as well as compounds sensitive to oxidation and light, effectively addressing concerns related to physicochemical and microbial instability. The efficacy of this formulation was demonstrated by its ability to enhance oil stability, preserving vulnerable double bonds from oxidative decomposition [
55,
56,
57,
58]. Creating a dry emulsion involved adsorbing a liquid emulsion onto adsorbents, allowing for the formation of a dry emulsion. The pattern of drug release from the system was influenced by variables such as the type of liquid emulsion and the polarity of the carrier. The easiest and most practical method involved swiftly combining a hydrophilic adsorbent with a liquid emulsion, followed by drying the resulting wet mass [
59]. The process of obtaining uniform dry emulsions from an O/W emulsion containing ostrich oil involved the use of adsorbents such as Avicel
® PH-101 and Aerosil
® 200. The resulting dry emulsions manifested as lipid-based granules that could be easily reconstituted into the O/W emulsion using aqueous solutions. The obtained dry emulsion granules were then filled into hard gelatin capsules. Upon oral administration, the formulation disintegrated, releasing the emulsion powder. The adsorbed emulsion subsequently returned to its liquid state [
51]. The careful selection of edible adsorbents for oral administration systems played a pivotal role in the preparation of dry emulsions. The overarching objectives of this research were to assess the feasibility of manufacturing dietary supplements encapsulated with dry emulsions that incorporate ostrich oil.
4. Discussion
Considerations and implications of optimal dosage strategies for the consumption of ostrich oil dry emulsion as a dietary supplement
In recent years, consumers have become progressively more conscious of the vital role that food and nutrition play in their overall health. This awareness has led to a heightened focus on factors such as cholesterol content and fatty acid composition, as research has highlighted their potential links to cardiovascular disease [
107]. Understanding the qualitative attributes of fats, particularly their fatty acid profiles, offers valuable insights into their overall quality. Fats rich in PUFAs are particularly valued. It is noteworthy that ostrich adipose tissue or ostrich oil presents a potential dietary supplement option for human consumption [
108]. Employing an experimental model involving 150-day-old male Wistar rats, which were fed diets incorporating ostrich meat with its natural fat content, the investigation revealed negligible alterations in lipid metabolism attributed to the consumption of ostrich meat. These findings imply that the inclusion of ostrich meat in the diet does not give rise to significant concerns regarding elevated plasma lipoprotein levels or hepatic transaminase activity [
109]. Furthermore, ostrich oil, harnessed as a novel dietary fat source, was integrated into the production of health-conscious biscuits due to its abundance of beneficial PUFAs, contributing to overall well-being. Notably, the utilization of ostrich oil in dietary contexts exhibited no adverse effects on liver and kidney functions or serum composition [
110]. A preceding study delved into the prospect of substituting both vegetable oil and ostrich oil in the formulation of baby milk powder. This endeavor involved a comprehensive comparison between ostrich oil and various vegetable-derived oils (including palm oil, rapeseed oil, and sunflower oil) to ascertain their efficacy as fat sources for infant milk powder. This assessment was conducted with a fat concentration of 27.25% w/w in the production process using spray-drying techniques. Ostrich oil was found to be rich in predominant fatty acids, including omega-6, omega-9, and palmitic acid, akin to the fatty acid composition of breast milk. The outcomes underscored the value of ostrich oil for its fatty acid content, closely resembling the profile found in breast milk. However, it is important to acknowledge that pure animal fats, such as ostrich fat, tend to possess lower levels of phospholipids. Consequently, a strategic blending of vegetable oils and ostrich oil emerges as a viable approach to emulate the lipid composition akin to breast milk. As such, ostrich oil presents itself as a novel and viable source of edible oil for infant nutrition [
111].
The ratio of PUFA/SFA serves as a prevalent metric to evaluate the nutritional merit of dietary fats for human consumption. As per established nutritional guidelines, the PUFA/SFA ratio within the human diet is advised to exceed 0.45 [
74]. Notably, the PUFA/SFA ratios evident in ostrich oil surpass this threshold, with values exceeding 0.8, aligning harmoniously with nutritional directives (> 0.45). Crucially, ostrich oil boasts elevated levels of essential fatty acids, a trait distinct from various other natural oils. This distinct composition positions it as a viable dietary supplement for health promotion, underpinned by its substantial high-PUFA content, which appears to correlate with potent antioxidant activity. This characteristic lends further weight to its potential role in bolstering overall well-being [
60].
Dietary guidelines provided by the WHO and the dietary reference intakes (DRIs) advocate for a total fat intake ranging from 20% to 35% of total caloric intake [
112,
113]. The lower limit of 20% is intended to ensure sufficient consumption of overall energy, essential fatty acids, and fat-soluble vitamins [
112]. Conversely, the upper limit of 35% is rooted in the objective of curtailing saturated fat intake as well as the recognition that individuals on higher-fat diets often ingest more calories, resulting in weight gain [
113]. It’s worth noting that no tolerable upper intake level (UL) has been established for total fat, as there is no discernible threshold at which adverse events occur [
113]. Evidence garnered from prior observational studies and randomized clinical trials has illuminated that substituting saturated fat with carbohydrates, particularly those that are refined, fails to confer any cardiovascular disease risk reduction benefits. On the other hand, the replacement of saturated fat with PUFAs, whether in lieu of saturated fats or carbohydrates, demonstrates a propensity to reduce risk [
114]. The FAO has introduced new acceptable macronutrient distribution ranges (AMDR) for adults, encompassing energy intake for both omega-6 and omega-3 [
115]. Omega-3 and omega-6 assume pivotal roles in human health across all life stages, including developmental, maturation, and aging phases. Their significance extends to functions like cell membrane composition, metabolism, signal transduction, amplification, and gene expression [
116]. In several countries, the average consumption of PUFAs by adults, children, and adolescents falls below the recommended levels stipulated by FAO/WHO [
117]. These demographic groups exhibit heightened nutrient requirements, particularly for PUFAs, due to the demands of rapid growth and development [
118,
119,
120]. In addition, alterations in body composition, physical activity, and the presence of a variety of health conditions result in altered nutrient requirements in the elderly. Factors such as reduced food variety, diminished appetite, sensory decline in food appreciation, dental and swallowing issues, and social considerations can lead to suboptimal PUFA intake and potentially compromise other essential micronutrients [
121]. Nevertheless, the lower threshold for fat intake is contingent upon three key factors: the fat needed to fulfill energy demands, the necessity for essential fatty acids, and the quantity of dietary fat requisite for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, particularly vitamins A and E. For adults, the recommended intake for essential fatty acids lies within the range of 3–5% of dietary energy for omega-6 and 0.5–1.0% of dietary energy for omega-3 [
122]. Notably, omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, along with their endogenous metabolic derivatives, have been shown to impact and potentially regulate processes such as inflammation, vasoconstriction, vasodilation, blood pressure, bronchial constriction, uterine contractility, and oxidative damage during reperfusion [
123].
Ostrich oil stands out for its low cholesterol content and substantial levels of PUFAs, rendering it a viable candidate for incorporation into dietary supplements. In the context of this research, each capsule of dry emulsion (500 mg) consisted of ostrich oil (129.3 mg) and lecithin (129.3 mg), contributing 35.85 mg of omega-6 and 3.90 mg of omega-3. This composition presented a potential avenue for individuals seeking to enhance their intake of PUFAs, particularly omega-6 and omega-3, through the consumption of ostrich oil dry emulsion capsules. The levels of omega-6 and omega-3 exhibited variability between genders, influenced by dietary regimens, supplementation types, and physical activity levels in both healthy individuals and those with cardiovascular conditions [
124]. This underscored the necessity for further rigorously controlled clinical investigations under well-defined protocols to comprehensively elucidate the ramifications of omega-6 and omega-3 supplementation on both overall health and disease states. However, it’s imperative to acknowledge the potential drawbacks associated with the chronic consumption of ostrich oil. Instances of adverse effects have been noted, encompassing hepatic injury, neuroinflammation, hypersensitivity reactions, and alterations in behavior. Given these findings, the present body of evidence did not lend support to the long-term utilization of ostrich oil as a dietary supplement [
125]. This cautionary note underscores the need for a balanced consideration of potential benefits and risks when evaluating ostrich oil’s viability as a dietary addition.
Figure 2.
Appearances of the emulsions comprising 10% w/w ostrich oil and 1% w/w to 15% w/w lecithin on days 1, 3, and 7 (L01 to L15 represent lecithin concentrations ranging from 1% w/w to 15% w/w).
Figure 2.
Appearances of the emulsions comprising 10% w/w ostrich oil and 1% w/w to 15% w/w lecithin on days 1, 3, and 7 (L01 to L15 represent lecithin concentrations ranging from 1% w/w to 15% w/w).
Figure 3.
Appearances of the emulsions comprising 5% w/w to 30% w/w ostrich oil and 10% w/w lecithin on days 1, 3, and 7 (O-05 to O-30 represent ostrich oil concentrations ranging from 5% w/w to 30% w/w).
Figure 3.
Appearances of the emulsions comprising 5% w/w to 30% w/w ostrich oil and 10% w/w lecithin on days 1, 3, and 7 (O-05 to O-30 represent ostrich oil concentrations ranging from 5% w/w to 30% w/w).
Figure 4.
The viscosity of emulsions containing 10% w/w ostrich oil and 1% w/w -15% w/w lecithin.
Figure 4.
The viscosity of emulsions containing 10% w/w ostrich oil and 1% w/w -15% w/w lecithin.
Figure 5.
The viscosity of emulsions containing 5% w/w - 30% w/w ostrich oil and 10% w/w lecithin.
Figure 5.
The viscosity of emulsions containing 5% w/w - 30% w/w ostrich oil and 10% w/w lecithin.
Figure 6.
The droplet size of emulsions containing 10% w/w ostrich oil and 1% w/w -15% w/w lecithin.
Figure 6.
The droplet size of emulsions containing 10% w/w ostrich oil and 1% w/w -15% w/w lecithin.
Figure 7.
The droplet size of emulsions containing 5% w/w - 30% w/w ostrich oil and 10% w/w lecithin.
Figure 7.
The droplet size of emulsions containing 5% w/w - 30% w/w ostrich oil and 10% w/w lecithin.
Figure 8.
Photomicrographs of emulsions containing 10% w/w ostrich oil and 1% w/w - 15% w/w lecithin.
Figure 8.
Photomicrographs of emulsions containing 10% w/w ostrich oil and 1% w/w - 15% w/w lecithin.
Figure 9.
Photomicrographs of emulsions containing 5% w/w - 30% w/w ostrich oil and 10% w/w lecithin.
Figure 9.
Photomicrographs of emulsions containing 5% w/w - 30% w/w ostrich oil and 10% w/w lecithin.
Figure 10.
The zeta potential of emulsions containing 10% w/w ostrich oil and 1% w/w - 15% w/w lecithin.
Figure 10.
The zeta potential of emulsions containing 10% w/w ostrich oil and 1% w/w - 15% w/w lecithin.
Figure 11.
The zeta potential of emulsions containing 5% w/w - 30% w/w ostrich oil and 10% w/w lecithin.
Figure 11.
The zeta potential of emulsions containing 5% w/w - 30% w/w ostrich oil and 10% w/w lecithin.
Figure 12.
Appearances of the dry emulsions prepared using Avicel® PH-101 (A) and Aerosil® 200 (B) as adsorbents.
Figure 12.
Appearances of the dry emulsions prepared using Avicel® PH-101 (A) and Aerosil® 200 (B) as adsorbents.
Figure 13.
Visual observations of Avicel® PH-101 and Aerosil® 200 granules containing ostrich oil emulsion reconstituted with distilled water at room temperature before (A) and after (B) centrifugation, along with their dry sediments (C). The initial weight of the dry emulsion and the remaining weight (dry sediment) were used to calculate the percentage of weight loss after oil release.
Figure 13.
Visual observations of Avicel® PH-101 and Aerosil® 200 granules containing ostrich oil emulsion reconstituted with distilled water at room temperature before (A) and after (B) centrifugation, along with their dry sediments (C). The initial weight of the dry emulsion and the remaining weight (dry sediment) were used to calculate the percentage of weight loss after oil release.
Figure 14.
Photomicrographs of Avicel® PH-101 (upper) and Aerosil® 200 (lower) granules containing ostrich oil emulsion reconstituted with distilled water at room temperature before (A) and after (B) centrifugation.
Figure 14.
Photomicrographs of Avicel® PH-101 (upper) and Aerosil® 200 (lower) granules containing ostrich oil emulsion reconstituted with distilled water at room temperature before (A) and after (B) centrifugation.
Figure 15.
Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of Avicel® PH-101 granules containing ostrich oil emulsion (A), Avicel® PH-101 (B), and lecithin (C).
Figure 15.
Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of Avicel® PH-101 granules containing ostrich oil emulsion (A), Avicel® PH-101 (B), and lecithin (C).
Figure 16.
Scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) images of Avicel® PH-101 (A) lecithin (B), and Avicel® PH-101 granules containing ostrich oil emulsion stored at 4 °C (C), and 45 °C (D), RH 75 ± 2%.
Figure 16.
Scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) images of Avicel® PH-101 (A) lecithin (B), and Avicel® PH-101 granules containing ostrich oil emulsion stored at 4 °C (C), and 45 °C (D), RH 75 ± 2%.
Figure 17.
Absorbance measurements of ostrich oil (OO) and ostrich oil with BHT (OO + BHT) following storage through 6 cycles of temperature cycling.
Figure 17.
Absorbance measurements of ostrich oil (OO) and ostrich oil with BHT (OO + BHT) following storage through 6 cycles of temperature cycling.
Figure 18.
Absorbance values for ostrich oil with and without BHT stored at 4 °C, 25 °C, and 45 °C over a period of 180 days.
Figure 18.
Absorbance values for ostrich oil with and without BHT stored at 4 °C, 25 °C, and 45 °C over a period of 180 days.
Figure 19.
Visual aspects of Avicel® PH-101 granules containing ostrich oil emulsion at the onset of storage (A) and following 180 days of storage at 4 °C (B), 25 °C (C), and 45 °C (D).
Figure 19.
Visual aspects of Avicel® PH-101 granules containing ostrich oil emulsion at the onset of storage (A) and following 180 days of storage at 4 °C (B), 25 °C (C), and 45 °C (D).
Figure 20.
SEM images of Avicel® PH-101 granules containing ostrich oil emulsion at the initial time (A) and after 180 days of storage at 4 °C (B), 25 °C (C), and 45 °C (D).
Figure 20.
SEM images of Avicel® PH-101 granules containing ostrich oil emulsion at the initial time (A) and after 180 days of storage at 4 °C (B), 25 °C (C), and 45 °C (D).
Figure 21.
Acid values (A) and peroxide values (B) of ostrich oil (OO) and Avicel® PH-101 granules containing ostrich oil emulsion (OO granule), both with and without BHT, under temperature cycling for 6 cycles.
Figure 21.
Acid values (A) and peroxide values (B) of ostrich oil (OO) and Avicel® PH-101 granules containing ostrich oil emulsion (OO granule), both with and without BHT, under temperature cycling for 6 cycles.
Figure 22.
Acid values of ostrich oil (OO) and Avicel® PH-101 granules containing ostrich oil emulsion (OO granule), both with and without BHT, stored at 4 °C, 25 °C, and 45 °C for 180 days.
Figure 22.
Acid values of ostrich oil (OO) and Avicel® PH-101 granules containing ostrich oil emulsion (OO granule), both with and without BHT, stored at 4 °C, 25 °C, and 45 °C for 180 days.
Figure 23.
Peroxide values of ostrich oil (OO) and Avicel® PH-101 granules containing ostrich oil emulsion (OO granule), both with and without BHT, stored at 4 °C, 25 °C, and 45 °C for 180 days.
Figure 23.
Peroxide values of ostrich oil (OO) and Avicel® PH-101 granules containing ostrich oil emulsion (OO granule), both with and without BHT, stored at 4 °C, 25 °C, and 45 °C for 180 days.
Table 1.
Formulations of 10% w/w ostrich oil emulsions stabilized with 1% w/w to 15% w/w lecithin and their corresponding percent creaming indices (% CI) on days 1, 3, and 7.
Table 1.
Formulations of 10% w/w ostrich oil emulsions stabilized with 1% w/w to 15% w/w lecithin and their corresponding percent creaming indices (% CI) on days 1, 3, and 7.
Fomulation |
Lecithin (% w/w)
|
Distilled water (% w/w)
|
Ostrich oil (% w/w) |
% Creaming index (% CI) |
Day 1 |
Day 3 |
Day 7 |
L01 |
1 |
89 |
10 |
78.38 |
78.38 |
77.78 |
L02 |
2 |
88 |
10 |
80.56 |
80.56 |
80.56 |
L03 |
3 |
87 |
10 |
77.78 |
75.68 |
72.22 |
L04 |
4 |
86 |
10 |
0.00 |
78.38 |
76.32 |
L05 |
5 |
85 |
10 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
L06 |
6 |
84 |
10 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
L07 |
7 |
83 |
10 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
L08 |
8 |
82 |
10 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
L09 |
9 |
81 |
10 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
L10 |
10 |
80 |
10 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
L11 |
11 |
79 |
10 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
L12 |
12 |
78 |
10 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
L13 |
13 |
77 |
10 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
L14 |
14 |
76 |
10 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
L15 |
15 |
75 |
10 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
Table 2.
Formulations of 5% to 30% w/w ostrich oil emulsions stabilized with 10% w/w lecithin and their corresponding percent creaming indices (% CI) on days 1, 3, and 7.
Table 2.
Formulations of 5% to 30% w/w ostrich oil emulsions stabilized with 10% w/w lecithin and their corresponding percent creaming indices (% CI) on days 1, 3, and 7.
Fomulation |
Lecithin (% w/w)
|
Distilled water (% w/w)
|
Ostrich oil (% w/w) |
% Creaming index (% CI) |
Day 1 |
Day 3 |
Day 7 |
O-05 |
10 |
85 |
5 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
O-10 |
10 |
80 |
10 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
O-15 |
10 |
75 |
15 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
O-20 |
10 |
70 |
20 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
O-25 |
10 |
65 |
25 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
O-30 |
10 |
60 |
30 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
Table 3.
Color components of the dry emulsions prepared using Avicel® PH-101 and Aerosil® 200.
Table 3.
Color components of the dry emulsions prepared using Avicel® PH-101 and Aerosil® 200.
Color components |
Dry emulsions |
Avicel® PH-101 |
Aerosil® 200 |
Granule color L* a* b* |
92.48 ± 0.43 -0.32 ± 0.07 18.44 ± 0.16 |
92.55 ± 0.37 -0.47 ± 0.10 18.60 ± 0.12 |
Table 4.
Color values (L*, a*, b*, and ∆E) of Avicel® PH-101 granules containing ostrich oil emulsion with and without BHT exposed to temperature cycling for 6 cycles.
Table 4.
Color values (L*, a*, b*, and ∆E) of Avicel® PH-101 granules containing ostrich oil emulsion with and without BHT exposed to temperature cycling for 6 cycles.
Avicel® PH-101 granules containing ostrich oil emulsion |
Cycle |
L* |
a* |
b* |
∆E
|
With BHT |
0 6 |
92.37 ± 0.47 92.23 ± 0.27 |
-0.64 ± 0.17 -0.63 ± 0.10 |
18.32 ± 0.26 18.38 ± 0.62 |
0.15 |
Without BHT |
0 6 |
92.34 ± 0.43 92.17 ± 0.45 |
-0.68 ± 0.10 -0.62 ± 0.07 |
18.29 ± 0.16 18.24 ± 0.37 |
0.19 |
Table 5.
Color values (L*, a*, b*, and ∆E) of Avicel® PH-101 granules containing ostrich oil emulsion with and without BHT, stored at 4 °C, 25 °C, and 45 °C, on days 0, 30, 90, and 180.
Table 5.
Color values (L*, a*, b*, and ∆E) of Avicel® PH-101 granules containing ostrich oil emulsion with and without BHT, stored at 4 °C, 25 °C, and 45 °C, on days 0, 30, 90, and 180.
Ostrich oil - Avicel®101 granules |
Day |
L* |
a* |
b* |
∆E
|
With BHT Stored at 4 °C |
0 30 90 180 |
92.37 ± 0.47 92.37 ± 0.42 92.37 ± 0.39 92.37 ± 0.70 |
-0.67 ± 0.18 -0.64 ± 0.08 -0.67 ± 0.11 -0.63 ± 0.12 |
18.32 ± 0.26 18.10 ± 0.24 18.10 ± 0.32 18.14 ± 0.21 |
0.22 0.22 0.18 |
With BHT Stored at 25 °C |
0 30 90 180 |
92.37 ± 0.47 92.30 ± 0.72 92.13 ± 0.16 92.00 ± 0.17 |
-0.64 ± 0.17 -0.67 ± 0.07 -0.62 ± 0.03 -0.62 ± 0.09 |
18.32 ± 0.26 18.09 ± 0.19 18.06 ± 0.24 18.22 ± 0.11 |
0.24 0.35 0.38 |
With BHT Stored at 45 °C |
0 30 90 180 |
92.37 ± 0.47 91.66 ± 0.10 89.88 ± 0.34 88.51 ± 0.21 |
-0.64 ± 0.17 0.58 ± 0.07 1.48 ± 0.13 2.36 ± 0.17 |
18.32 ± 0.26 19.15 ± 0.38 20.92 ± 0.26 23.95 ± 0.06 |
1.64 4.18 7.46 |
Without BHT Stored at 4 °C |
0 30 90 180 |
92.34 ± 0.43 92.31 ± 0.78 92.38 ± 0.17 92.09 ± 0.19 |
-0.68 ± 0.10 -0.64 ± 0.13 -0.64 ± 0.16 -0.62 ± 0.13 |
18.29 ± 0.16 18.23 ± 0.32 18.10 ± 0.15 18.13 ± 0.07 |
0.08 0.20 0.30 |
Without BHT Stored at 25 °C |
0 30 90 180 |
92.34 ± 0.43 92.22 ± 0.69 91.96 ± 0.15 91.93 ± 0.08 |
-0.64 ± 0.11 -0.42 ± 0.14 -0.48 ± 0.15 -0.44 ± 0.17 |
18.29 ± 0.16 18.10 ± 0.11 18.12 ± 0.26 18.01 ± 0.14 |
0.31 0.45 0.54 |
Without BHT Stored at 45 °C |
0 30 90 180 |
92.34 ± 0.43 91.07 ± 0.18 87.76 ± 0.67 83.13 ± 0.22 |
-0.64 ± 0.11 0.62 ± 0.45 3.64 ± 0.17 6.41 ± 0.06 |
18.29 ± 0.16 21.38 ± 0.05 27.55 ± 0.13 34.55 ± 0.23 |
3.57 11.18 19.97 |