Palm oil is a versatile vegetable oil with a wide range of uses, primarily in food and non-food products, including cooking, baking, cosmetics, and even biofuels.
It's a major ingredient in packaged foods, personal care products, and is also used to produce detergents and other household cleaning agents.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Food Products:
Cooking Oil:
Palm oil is a popular choice for cooking, especially for frying due to its high heat stability.
Baking:
It's used in baking to help create texture and structure in baked goods like bread, cakes, and pastries.
Snacks:
Palm oil can be found in chocolate, ice cream, and other snacks.
Instant Noodles:
Palm oil can be a significant component of instant noodles, contributing to their flavor and texture.
Margarine and Butter:
It's used in margarine and butter production to provide a smooth and spreadable consistency and prevent oxidation.
Non-Food Products:
Cosmetics:
Palm oil is used in various cosmetics, including lipstick, shampoo, toothpaste, and deodorant.
Personal Care:
It's a key ingredient in soaps, shampoos, and other personal care products, often serving as a foaming agent or emulsifier.
Detergents and Cleaning Products:
Palm oil is used in the production of detergents, washing powder, and other household cleaning products.
Biofuel:
Palm oil can be converted into biofuel, a renewable energy source.
Other:
Palm oil can also be used in animal feed and as an adhesive for certain materials.