Crude palm oil is an edible oil that comes from the pulp of oil palm fruits.
Key Characteristics of Crude Palm Oil
- Origin: It's derived from the fleshy part of the oil palm fruit, Elaeis guineensis, and not the kernel.
- Color: Crude palm oil has a natural reddish color due to its high content of beta-carotene. Beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A.
- Edible: As the reference notes, this oil is edible, meaning it can be safely consumed.
Why is it Important?
Palm oil is a widely used vegetable oil and a key ingredient in various products, including:
- Food products
- Cosmetics
- Biofuels
Processing
It's important to note that crude palm oil is not the final product for most applications. It typically undergoes refining processes to remove impurities, odors, and improve its stability, leading to refined palm oil.
