Many plants give oil, but the primary sources for global oil production are soybeans, oil palm, rape (canola), and sunflower.
While numerous plants can be processed to extract oil, these four species account for approximately 70% of the world's plant oil production. Other notable oil-producing plants include:
- Olive: Produces olive oil, widely used in cooking and cosmetics.
- Coconut: Yields coconut oil, used in cooking, cosmetics, and industrial applications.
- Corn (Maize): Produces corn oil, often used in cooking and as an ingredient in processed foods.
- Peanut: Provides peanut oil, commonly used for frying and in various cuisines.
- Cottonseed: A byproduct of cotton production, cottonseed oil is used in cooking and industrial applications.
- Sesame: Produces sesame oil, popular in Asian cuisine and known for its distinct flavor.
- Palm Kernel: Oil extracted from the kernel of the oil palm fruit is used in food and cosmetic products.
The specific plant chosen for oil extraction often depends on factors such as climate, agricultural practices, and market demand. The use of plant oils is incredibly diverse, spanning from culinary applications and cosmetics to biofuels and industrial lubricants.
