Oxidative rancidity in anhydrous cow milk fat leads to reduction in its shelf life. Use of synthetic
antioxidants is prevalent in dairy industry to prevent the development of rancidity. Keeping in view
the increasing demand for natural additives, the present study was carried out to explore the potential
of lycopene as a natural antioxidant in anhydrous cow milk fat. Lycopene at five different levels (30,
60, 90, 120 and 150 ppm) and butylated hydroxyl anisole (200 ppm), were incorporated in anhydrous
cow milk fat. Potential of lycopene extract to enhance the shelf life of anhydrous cow milk fat was
evaluated by measuring Free Fatty Acids, peroxide value, Thiobarbituric Acid value and color value during
12 months of storage at ambient conditions (30 C). Lycopene significantly (p < 0.05) prevented the
development of oxidative rancidity. Lycopene containing samples scored significantly higher in terms
of sensory attributes as compared to control.