õlikultuured

Õlikultuurid are agricultural crops grown primarily for their oil content. These oils can be used for a variety of purposes, including human consumption, animal feed, and industrial applications such as biofuel and lubricants. The specific type of oil produced depends on the crop. Common oil crops include soybeans, rapeseed (canola), sunflowers, peanuts, and olives. Each of these crops has specific growing requirements regarding climate, soil type, and water availability.

The cultivation of oil crops is a significant sector in global agriculture. Economic factors, such as market demand for edible oils and biofuels, heavily influence which oil crops are grown in different regions. Research and development in agricultural science continually aim to improve yields, oil quality, and resistance to pests and diseases in these crops.

The processing of oil crops involves extracting the oil through methods like pressing or solvent extraction. The remaining solid material, known as oilseed cake or meal, is often used as a valuable source of protein in animal feed. The sustainability of oil crop production is an ongoing consideration, with efforts focused on minimizing environmental impact, such as soil erosion and water usage, and promoting biodiversity. Different oil crops have varying nutritional profiles and industrial properties, making them suitable for diverse applications.