Abstract: A process for the fractionation of hardened butterfat resulting in a fraction (i) enriched in triglycerides comprising two fatty acid residues having each at least 16 carbon atoms and 1 fatty acid residue with 2 to 8 carbon atoms, said triglycerides having a carbonnumber ranging from 24 to 42 and a fraction (ii) enriched in triglycerides having a carbonnumber greater than 42. Fractionation is preferable carried out in the presence of a solvent such as acetone or hexane. Margarine fat blends containing fraction (i) display improved butterlike properties.

Abstract: Process for the selective hydrogenation of polyunsaturated compounds with a metallic catalyst. The selectivity is increased and trans-isomerization is decreased by carrying out the hydrogenation in the presence of a catalyst to which, before the hydrogenation is started, an external potential, differing from the naturally occuring equilibrium potential, is applied while in contact with an electrolyte, such as a quaternary ammonium salt, dissolved in a liquid, such as an alcohol or a ketone.

Abstract: Process for the selective hydrogenation of polyunsaturated compounds with a metallic catalyst. The selectivity is increased and trans-isomerization is decreased by carrying out the hydrogenation in the presence of a catalyst to which, before the hydrogenation is started, an external potential, differing from the naturally occuring equilibrium potential, is applied while in contact with an electrolyte, such as a quaternary ammonium salt, dissolved in a liquid, such as an alcohol or a ketone.