Sterol esters are a heterogeneous group ofchemical compounds. They are created when thehydroxyl group of asterol and afatty acid undergo anesterification reaction. They can be found in trace amounts in every cell type but are highly enriched infoam cells and are common components ofhuman skin oil.[1]
Plant sterol (phytosterol) esters have been shown to reduce the level oflow-density lipoprotein (LDL)cholesterol inblood when ingested. Plant sterol esters used for dietary supplements are made fromphytosterols andfatty acids also derived from plants. They are added to certain oil-containing products likemargarine,milk, oryogurt to makefunctional foods for controlling cholesterol levels. Studies have indicated that consumption of about 2 grams per day of phytosterol esters provides a reduction in LDL cholesterol of around 10%.[2]Sterol esters are added to certainUnilever products under the brand nameBecel/Flora.