Changes in Enantiomeric Distribution of δ- and γ-Lactones in Wagyu Beef Fat during Heating

The enantiomeric distribution of the δ- and γ-lactones in Wagyu beef was determined using solvent extraction and gas chromatography with a chiral capillary column. The results revealed that the predominant lactones in Wagyu were (R)-δ-tetradecalactone and (R)-δ-hexadecalactone. The concentrations of several lactone types were higher after heat treatment. δ-Lactones were predominantly present in the (R)-form in the heated samples. γ-Dodecalactone was also abundant in the (R)-form, whereas other γ-lactones were found in racemic mixtures. These findings suggest that the major lactones in Wagyu beef primarily exist in the (R)-form and that heat treatment influences their enantiomeric distribution.