• What is the global production of edible oil?
  • In 2018, the global production of edible oil had reached 204 million tonnes (USDA 2019). Palm oil accounted for 36% of the total oil produced and its consumption has reached approximately 69 million tonnes. Palm oil has primarily been used for the production of food, biofuel and oleochemicals.
  • What is palm oil?
  • Palm oil is a type of sustainable vegetable oil derived from the fruit of the palm oil tree, scientifically known as Elaeis guineensis. It is one of the most widely used and versatile vegetable oils globally due to its high yield, low cost of production, and various applications in the food, cosmetics, and biofuel industries.
  • Why is the oil palm industry important?
  • The global oil palm industry is a major component of contemporary agriculture, supplying food to billions of people, plus a host of non-food products that include strategically vital cleaning products used in critical health care settings.
  • What machinery is used to refine palm oil?
  • Hence, here is a table showing machinery used to refine palm oil: A neutralizer works to reduce the free fatty acid (FFA) content in crude palm oil (CPO), improving its quality for various applications. This is achieved through a chemical reaction with an alkaline solution.
  • How is palm oil produced?
  • Palm oil production begins with palm trees, which are grown in various regions. The journey from tree to oil involves several important steps. Here’s how it happens: The palm oil production process begins with the harvesting of ripe oil palm fruits. Mature fruit bunches, displaying a reddish-orange color, are meticulously selected for harvesting.
  • What are the basic operations associated with palm oil processing?
  • The basic unit operations associated with palm oil processing include fruit sterilization, fruit loosening/stripping, digestion, oil extraction and clarification. Fruit sterilization denotes heat rendering and moisture absorption. The aim is to inactivate the lipolytic enzymes in the fruit mesocarp.