Abstract
Varietal developments in canola and rapeseed (Brassica napus L. and B. rapa L.) flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) sunflower seed (Helianthus annuus L.), and mustard seed (Brassica juncea L.) and soybean (Glycine max Merr.) will result in significant changes in the pattern of major fatty acids in some varieties of Canadian oilseeds. Modifications to the fatty acid pattern of canola include development of lines with high levels of oleic acid and low levels of linolenic acid in an effort to improve oxidative stability of the oil. Specialty products with high levels of saturated fatty acids and erucic acid are also being developed. Flaxseed with low levels of linolenic acid, first isolated in Australia, is being further developed in Canada and is being marketed as solin. Early maturing sunflowerseed, marketed as sunola, with high levels of oleic acid have also been developed. Development of mustard seed a fatty acid pattern similar to canola will result in a large increase in the supply of this commodity. Development of modified fatty acid patterns in soybean will parallel similar developments in the United States. More information is needed on the effect that modifying fatty acid patterns will have on the content of other lipid components, especially those which may effect performance including tocopherols, sterols and minor fatty acids.
