This invention relates to processes for the production of purified, partially
esterified polyol fatty acid polyesters and the compositions derived from those
processes. The purified, partially esterified polyol fatty acid polyesters of the
present invention are particularly well suited for use in a variety of food, beverage,
pharmaceutical, and cosmetic applications and comprise less than about 5% by dry
weight of polyol; less than about 5 ppm of residual solvent; less than about 700
ppm of lower alky esters; less than about 5% by dry weight of a soap and free fatty
acid mixture; and less than about 3% by dry weight of ash. The compositions have
an acid value of less than about 6.
