Oil palm seeds are primarily used for their oil, which has various applications.
Uses of Oil Palm Seeds
The primary use of oil palm seeds is to extract palm kernel oil. This oil and the byproducts of its extraction process are then used in the following ways:
Palm Kernel Oil Applications
- Food Industry: Palm kernel oil is a key ingredient in the production of many common food items, such as:
- Margarine
- Ice cream
- Chocolate confections
- Cookies
- Bread
- Pharmaceuticals: Palm kernel oil is also utilized in the manufacture of various pharmaceutical products.
Other Applications
- Cattle Feed: After the oil is extracted, the remaining cake residue serves as a source of cattle feed.
- Ornamental Use: Oil palm plants, from which the seeds are sourced, are also grown as ornamentals in many subtropical areas, not primarily due to the seeds themselves but as part of the overall plant's appeal.
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Palm Kernel Oil | Used in foods like margarine, ice cream, and pharmaceuticals. |
| Cake Residue | Used as cattle feed after oil extraction. |
| Ornamental Plant | The plant is grown for aesthetic purposes. |
The primary value of oil palm seeds is thus derived from their oil, but the residue and plant itself have secondary applications, as the reference states as of 27-Sept-2024.
