Pure palm oil and palm kernel oil are both derived from the same plant, the oil palm. Despite being extracted from the same plant, palm oil and palm kernel oil have different properties and uses.
In this article, we will compare and contrast these two types of oils and explain how they are produced and consumed.
Palm Oil and Palm Kernel Oil Production
Palm fruit oil is obtained from the flesh or pulp of the oil palm fruit, which is reddish or golden in color. The fruit is steamed and pressed to extract the oil, which is then refined to remove impurities and carotenoids. Palm fruit oil has a 50/50 ratio of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids and contains vitamin E in the form of tocotrienols.
Conversely, palm kernel oil is extracted from the soft inner part of the seed or kernel of the oil palm fruit. The kernel is cracked and separated from the shell, and then crushed and pressed to produce the oil. Palm kernel oil has a high content of saturated fatty acids, especially lauric acid, which makes it solid at room temperature. Palm kernel oil does not contain vitamin E or carotenoids. The color of palm kernel oil varies, depending on the extraction method. The oil extracted via the cold-press method is light yellow or clear, while the traditional method produces the dark brown colored oil. Palm kernel oil is more solid and has a lighter shade of yellow than palm oil, which has a richer, deeper reddish hue.
It's important to understand that the reddish color of palm oil extracted from the fruit is due to its high beta-carotene content. Palm Oil and Palm Kernel Oil Uses Palm fruit oil is mainly used for edible purposes, such as cooking, frying, baking, and margarine production. It has a neutral taste and a high smoke point, which makes it suitable for high-temperature cooking. Palm oil is a part of West Africans' dietary and culture.
Additionally, palm fruit oil is used in many cosmetics and personal care products, such as soap, shampoo, and lotion.
Contrary to palm oil, which is mostly used as cooking oil, palm kernel oil has a very different purpose. The oil extracted from the kernel is used for non-edible purposes and remains a great natural ingredient for cosmetics and personal care products, such as making hair conditioners, skin moisturizers, lipsticks, soap, candles, detergents, and lubricants.
Palm kernel oil has a strong coconut-like flavor and aroma, which makes it popular in some confectionery and chocolate products.
Palm Oil and Palm Kernel Oil Health Effects
Palm fruit oil is considered to be a healthy oil, as it contains a balanced ratio of saturated and unsaturated fats and has antioxidant properties due to its vitamin E content. Some studies have shown that palm fruit oil can lower cholesterol levels, improve blood circulation, protect against oxidative stress, and prevent cardiovascular diseases.
Unlike palm oil from the fruit, palm kernel oil is an unhealthy edible oil.
Studies have also linked palm kernel oil to obesity, diabetes, inflammation, and liver damage.
Indeed, palm kernel oil contains a high amount of saturated fats, especially lauric acid, which is susceptible to raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart diseases.
Your Takeaway
Palm fruit oil and palm kernel oil are two different types of oils that come from the same plant but have different characteristics and applications.
Palm fruit oil is a healthy edible oil that is rich in vitamin E and antioxidants, while palm kernel oil is an unhealthy non-edible oil that is high in saturated fats and lauric acid.
As with every product, it is advisable to consume palm fruit oil in moderation and avoid palm kernel oil as much as possible.
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