What is palm oil? Let’s talk about this ubiquitous oil, from its culinary uses to its role in cosmetics and industry, the benefits and challenges, including its sustainable production practices and environmental impact. Learn more about palm fruit oil, also called crude palm oil, and palm olein, and their applications.
Palm oil is a ubiquitous and widely used vegetable oil derived from the fruit of the oil palm tree, primarily the Elaeis guineensis, which is native to West Africa.
Over the years, palm oil has gained prominence in the global market due to its various applications and economic potential.
In terms of processing, fresh oil palm fruit is harvested, steamed, and then pressed to extract the oil, which can be refined to produce various products, from cooking oil to personal care items. This straightforward extraction process contributes to the oil’s popularity.
Related: Benefits of Palm Oil
Key Takeaways
- Palm oil is a vegetable oil from the oil palm fruit, used globally in food, cosmetics, and industry.
- The refining process includes steaming, pressing, bleaching, and deodorizing to produce crude palm oil and palm olein.
- Palm oil’s high yield and stability make it popular, but it faces scrutiny over environmental impacts like deforestation.
- Crude palm oil is rich in saturated fats, while refined palm oil is used for cooking and in personal care products.
- Sustainable production practices and certifications, like those from RSPO, aim to address the environmental and social concerns of palm oil.
Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- What is Palm Oil?
- Types of Palm Oil
- Palm Oil Refining Process
- Palm Oil By-Products
- Consumption of Palm Oil
- Palm Oil Uses in Food Processing
- Palm Oil in Non-Food Industries
- Palm Oil Alternatives
- Health Implications of Palm Oil
- Global Dominance
- Controversy Surrounding Palm Oil
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Word from PalmOil Pathway
What is Palm Oil?
Palm oil is an umbrella name for an edible vegetable oil derived from the fruit of the oil palm tree, primarily cultivated in tropical regions such as Southeast Asia and Africa. It is a staple ingredient in many food products, cosmetics, and industrial applications due to its stability and high yield compared to other vegetable oils. Palm oil is often processed into crude palm oil, which is rich in saturated fats, and palm olein, a liquid fraction used in cooking and frying.
Among the oil crops, oil palm produced 36% of the global oil produced in 2014, making it the most productive oil crop. It is important to mention that palm olein is different from red or crude palm oil.
Recommended: Understanding the palm Fresh Fruit Bunches (FFB)
Types of Palm Oil
There are various types of palm oil, but three primary categories are crude palm oil, refined palm oil, and hydrogenated palm oil, each with distinct properties and applications.
Palm Fruit Oil
Crude palm oil, also known as palm fruit oil, is a natural, unrefined vegetable oil extracted from the flesh of the oil palm fruit.
It is rich in saturated fats and has a distinctive reddish color due to its high beta-carotene content.
Commonly used in cooking and food processing, crude palm oil is valued for its stability and versatility but also faces scrutiny over environmental impacts.
Refined Palm Oil
Refined palm oil also called olein is processed to remove impurities, color, and odor, making it suitable for a range of culinary and industrial applications.
This type of palm oil is high in saturated fats, which helps in maintaining stability at higher temperatures, making it an ideal choice for frying and baking.
In the food industry, refined palm oil is commonly used in margarine, baked goods, and snack foods.
Besides its culinary uses, it also finds applications in the cosmetics and personal care industries, where it serves as an emulsifier and moisturizer in products like lotions and soaps.
Hydrogenated Palm Oil
On the other hand, hydrogenated palm oil undergoes a process that adds hydrogen to liquid palm oil, transforming it into a solid or semi-solid state.
This process increases its shelf life and alters its texture, making it useful in products that require a stable fat that can withstand prolonged storage.
Hydrogenated palm oil is often found in processed foods, including baked goods, snacks, and confectionery items.
Related: Palm Oil Value Chain
Palm Oil Refining Process
As mentioned at the opening, the red oil extracted from the fruit pulp of the oil palm tree is crude or unrefined oil. The improvement of the crude palm is what results in the bleached olein version.
This is achieved by refining the crude palm by fractionation into its liquid and solid components.
Stearin which is the solid fraction is used in margarine and shortening and also used in making soaps.
The refining of palm oil is a central step in transforming crude palm oil into a suitable product for consumption and industrial use.
Each of these steps plays an important role in improving the quality, flavor, and stability of the final product.
Understanding these stages is essential for discerning both the technical and health-related aspects of palm oil.
Bleaching of the Red Crude Palm Oil
The next step, bleaching, is aimed at removing color pigments and other impurities that may affect the oil’s appearance and stability.
Bleaching agents, such as activated clays, are typically used to absorb these unwanted substances.
This stage not only enhances the visual appeal of palm oil but also helps to improve its shelf life by removing compounds that could otherwise lead to oxidation.
Deodorization
Deodorization is the final stage, wherein steam distillation is employed to remove volatile compounds that can impart undesirable flavors and odors to the oil.
This phase is essential for achieving a neutral taste, making it suitable for a variety of culinary and industrial applications.
The technology and machinery used in this step significantly impact the oil’s sensory properties and its overall quality.
The palm oil refining process can be executed through either chemical or physical methods.
Chemical refining involves the usage of various chemicals to achieve the desired purity, while physical refining leans towards steam distillation, requiring less chemical input.
Each process has its benefits, influencing the quality, safety, and environmental footprint of the palm oil produced.
Related: Derivatives of Palm Crude Oil
Palm Oil By-Products
Palm oil processing generates several by-products, which are not only for their economic potential but also for their diverse applications.
Palm Fatty Acid Distillate (PFAD) is a by-product from refining crude palm oil, containing free fatty acids.
It is widely used in biofuel production, particularly biodiesel, through a process called transesterification, which transforms PFAD into fatty acid methyl esters (FAME).
This contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting renewable energy.
Additionally, PFAD is valuable in the manufacturing of personal care products like soaps, where it acts as an emulsifier.
Its use extends to surfactants and detergents, supporting eco-friendly consumer products and enhancing sustainability within the palm oil industry.
Related: Consequences of Palm Oil Deforestation
Consumption of Palm Oil
The consumption of palm oil by humans stands at 7.7 kg per (17lb) of person. This report was in 2015.
A more recent report by Statista from 2015 to 2024 shows that its consumption reached 78 million metric tons worldwide which is expected to drop to approximately 77 million metric tons by the end of 2024.
However, demand for other uses has skyrocketed. The application of palm oil in cosmetics and biofuels is a driving factor in the cultivation of oil palm in tropical regions.
Related: Benefits of Palm Oil on the Skin
Palm Oil Uses in Food Processing
Palm oil is widely utilized in the food processing industry due to its functional properties.
As Cooking Oil
As a cooking oil, it is favored for its high smoke point, making it suitable for various cooking methods, including frying and sautéing.
The stable fatty acid composition of palm oil contributes to its resilience against oxidation, ensuring that it maintains its flavor and nutritional quality over extended periods.
This characteristic is particularly valued in commercial food establishments where consistency and performance are paramount.
Processed Foods
Beyond its use as a standalone cooking oil, palm oil plays a crucial role as an ingredient in numerous processed foods.
It is a primary component in products such as margarine, where it provides desired texture and spreadability.
Additionally, palm oil is prevalent in baked goods, serving as a source of moisture and aiding in the baking process, which enhances the overall quality and shelf life of products.
Its semi-solid state at room temperature allows it to serve effectively in formulations that require a firm texture without the necessity for hydrogenation, which is often associated with trans fats.
Palm Oil in Non-Food Industries
Palm oil and its derivatives have found substantial applications beyond the food industry, significantly impacting sectors such as cosmetics, personal care products, and biofuels.
The usefulness of palm oil makes it a valuable resource in formulating various products and improving texture, stability, and shelf life.
Cosmetics
In the cosmetics industry, palm oil is employed in lotions, creams, shampoos, and soaps due to its emollient properties.
Its ability to retain moisture ensures skin remains hydrated and nourished, which is particularly beneficial in products designed for dry or sensitive skin.
Moreover, palm oil derivatives like glycerin and stearic acid are commonly integrated into formulations to improve texture and emulsification, allowing for a smoother application.
These components are also utilized in a plethora of personal care products, including deodorants and sun protection creams, where their moisturizing attributes contribute to overall skin health.
Renewable Energy Solutions
In addition to cosmetics and personal care, palm oil’s role in renewable energy solutions, particularly biofuels, is increasingly significant.
Biofuels derived from palm oil, such as biodiesel, have been promoted as sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels, with the potential to reduce carbon emissions.
However, the debate surrounding the sustainability of biofuels remains contentious.
Critics argue that the expansion of palm oil plantations can lead to negative environmental impacts, including loss of biodiversity and greenhouse gas emissions linked to land-use change.
Palm Oil Alternatives
Concerns regarding its environmental impact and sustainability of palm oil have prompted the exploration of alternatives.
Several vegetable oils serve as substitutes for palm oil, each with distinct nutritional profiles and environmental implications.
Common alternatives include soybean oil, sunflower oil, canola oil, and coconut oil.
These oils vary in fatty acid composition and nutritional benefits, making them suitable substitutes based on specific applications.
Soybean Oil: For instance, soybean oil is rich in polyunsaturated fats and has a high smoke point, making it ideal for frying and baking.
Sunflower Oil: Sunflower oil, known for its light flavor and high vitamin E content, is commonly used in salad dressings and cooking oils.
Canola Oil: On the other hand, canola oil, which contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, is favored for its heart-healthy properties.
Coconut Oil: Coconut oil, although solid at room temperature, is often used in baking and cooking due to its unique flavor and potential health benefits.
Synthetic Fats: Moreover, synthetic fats are emerging as another alternative to palm oil. These fats can be engineered to mimic the functional properties of palm oil in various applications, from food products to cosmetics.
Health Implications of Palm Oil
Palm oil, derived from the fruit of the oil palm tree, is composed primarily of saturated and unsaturated fats.
Approximately 50% of its fat content is saturated, while 40% consists of unsaturated fats, including oleic and linoleic acids.
This distinctive fatty acid profile contributes to both the culinary qualities and health implications of palm oil.
Additionally, palm oil contains significant amounts of tocotrienols and tocopherols, which are forms of Vitamin E known for their antioxidant properties.
These antioxidants can help combat oxidative stress in the body, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Research indicates that the inclusion of palm oil in moderation may contribute to certain health benefits.
For instance, its high saturated fat content can enhance the stability of cooking oils at high temperatures, making it suitable for frying and baking with a lower risk of harmful substance formation.
The presence of antioxidants also means that palm oil may contribute positively to heart health when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
Furthermore, palm oil can support nutrient absorption, particularly for fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K.
Conversely, excessive consumption of palm oil, especially in an imbalanced diet high in saturated fats, can lead to health risks.
Some studies have suggested a correlation between high intakes of saturated fats and elevated LDL cholesterol levels, which may increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Comparing palm oil to other oils, such as olive oil or canola oil, reveals that these alternatives typically contain healthier fat profiles and may provide greater heart health benefits due to their higher unsaturated fat content.
Considering both benefits and risks, moderation and dietary balance are crucial when incorporating palm oil into the diet.
Individuals should assess their overall dietary patterns and consult healthcare or nutritional professionals to make informed choices regarding palm oil consumption.
Global Dominance
Palm oil dominates the global vegetable oil market, accounting for over 37% of the supply.
Its popularity stems from its high yield, stability, and versatility in various applications, including food products, cosmetics, and industrial uses.
Compared to other oils, palm oil is cost-effective and offers a stable cooking medium due to its resistance to oxidation at high temperatures.
However, its dominance comes with significant environmental and social concerns, such as deforestation and human rights violations.
The industry’s focus on sustainable practices aims to mitigate these issues, balancing economic benefits with environmental and social responsibilities.
Related: Palm Oil (Olein) vs Palm Fruit Oil
Controversy Surrounding Palm Oil
While palm oil is a major ingredient in most products, there are concerns of environmental implications raised by human rights groups.
The value chain of oil palm and indeed the industry is contributing to environmental degradation including deforestation in the producing regions.
It is also a major factor in some social problems of human rights violations among plantation owners, where child labor and land disputes are major incidents.
There are also concerns about whether palm oil is bad for health. Here is an article covering the health implications of palm oil.
Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil
Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil was established in 2004 to promote the promotion of ethical production of the oil, but the organization has not been forward in the certification of the oil palm product which has attracted critics.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature in 2018 mentioned that palm oil beats other oil crops in efficiency considering land space and the use of water in cultivation and production, however, deforestation caused by the cultivation of oil palm trees deals a heavier blow to biodiversity than switching to other oils.
Related: What is Hydrogenated Palm Oil?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is palm oil also known as?
It is also known as palm olein or red oil, derived from the mesocarp of oil palm fruits.
How is palm oil different from red palm oil?
Palm oil is an umbrella name that covers both red palm oil, palm olein, and refined pale yellow, odorless fat with a semi-solid consistency.
What are the main uses of palm oil?
It is widely used in cooking, food manufacturing, cosmetics, and biofuels due to its stability and cost-effectiveness.
Final Word from PalmOil Pathway
Palm oil, an umbrella word that covers the red palm oil extracted from the mesocarp of oil palm fruits and the refined palm olein, is widely used in food manufacturing, cosmetics, and biofuels, it accounts for over 37% of the global vegetable oil supply.
Despite its economic benefits, the production faces criticism for contributing to deforestation, environmental degradation, and human rights violations.
While it supports economic development and provides livelihoods for many, its environmental costs, including deforestation and biodiversity loss, are significant.
The growing demand for sustainably sourced palm oil highlights the need for informed consumer choices and collaboration among industry stakeholders.
Organizations like RSPO play a key role in promoting responsible practices.
Ensuring sustainable production is essential for balancing the economic advantages of palm oil with its environmental and social responsibilities.
Citations:
- https://frymax.co.uk/palm-history/
- http://theoilpalm.org/history-and-origin/
- https://www.oti-gati.com/single-post/refined-palm-oil-vs-crude-palm-oil
- https://www.aocs.org/stay-informed/inform-magazine/featured-articles/red-palm-oil-february-2017?SSO=True
