Hexane is a hydrocarbon solvent widely used in industrial oilseed extraction because it dissolves oil efficiently and is readily recovered by distillation, though residual levels in food and feed products are subject to regulatory limits.
In trade practice
Extraction plants operate closed-loop solvent-recovery systems to minimise losses and meet safety requirements. Residual hexane in edible oil and in meal intended for food or feed use must comply with limits set under applicable EU legislation on extraction solvents. Buyers routinely request certificates of analysis confirming residual solvent content, and auditors check that recovery equipment is maintained and that staff follow solvent-handling procedures.
In a specification
Oil specifications for food-grade product typically include a clause requiring residual hexane to be below the limit set in the relevant EU extraction solvents directive, with supporting analytical results from an accredited laboratory.