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What Is Palm Fruit Oil?

Palm fruit oil is also called palm oil and has been used for thousands of years. Palm fruit oil does not have an odor or a taste, and its composition is made up of 50 percent saturated fat and 50 percent unsaturated fat.

  1. Significance

    • Palm fruit oil has become popular as a replacement for hydrogenated oils found in processed foods.

    Geography

    • The world's leading producers and exporters of palm fruit oil are Malaysia, Indonesia and Colombia. West Africa also contributes to the global supply of palm fruit oil.

    Uses

    • Palm fruit oil can be used for cooking and baking, and is present in packaged foods, including potato chips, cake mixes and margarine. It is also used in the production of candles, lotions and cleaning products.

    Benefits

    • Palm fruit oil does not contain any trans-fatty acids or cholesterol, and contains antioxidants, including vitamin E.

    Controversy

    • According to the Center for Science in the Public Interest, the cultivation of palm fruit oil in Indonesia and Malaysia is leading to the destruction of large portions of the tropical rain forest.

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