Which among the following is NOT a feature of adipocere formation?: (A) Develops in moist clay soil, (B) Due to hydrolysis and hydrogenation of fat, (C) Cheesy odour, (D) First seen in subcutaneous fat deposit of cheek, buttocks etc
Answer is C. Adipocere has a offensive rancid or an unpleasant sweetish smell. It occurs as a result of hydrolysis and hydrogenation of preexisting fats into higher fatty acids which later combines with calcium and ammonium ions to form soluble soap which resists putrefaction. Ref: Textbook of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology by Narayan Reddy, Edition 23, Page - 137, 138.