Data from Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis, differential scanning calorimetry and features of the preparative method are all consistent with the existence of 2 intermediate beta' phases for tristearin; the first, a lower melting phase, beta'₂, transforms at 61 C into the second, beta'₁, which in turn changes at 64 C into beta tristearin. Raman spectral evidence indicates that the 2 mesophases occur in a orthorhombic packing environment and that the beta'₂ to the beta'₁ transition results from a change in lateral packing of the hydro-carbon chains.