Description

Crude palm oil (CPO) is a type of vegetable oil that is obtained from the fruit of the oil palm tree. It is one of the most widely produced and traded edible oils in the world, mainly due to its high yield and versatility. CPO is a key ingredient in various food products, such as cooking oil, margarine, and snacks, as well as non-food products like cosmetics, soaps, and biofuels.

The process of extracting CPO involves harvesting ripe oil palm fruit bunches, steaming and pressing them to extract the crude oil, and then refining and processing it to remove impurities and produce a clear, golden-colored oil. CPO is known for its high levels of saturated and unsaturated fats, as well as vitamin E and other antioxidants.

However, the production of CPO has faced criticism for its environmental and social impacts, including deforestation, habitat destruction, and human rights violations in palm oil-producing regions. Sustainable practices, such as certified organic farming, responsible sourcing, and conservation efforts, are increasingly being promoted in the palm oil industry to mitigate these concerns and ensure the long-term viability of CPO production.