Eläinöljyjä

Eläinöljyjä refers to oils derived from animal sources. These oils have been used by humans for a wide variety of purposes throughout history, ranging from food and medicine to lubrication and fuel. The specific properties and uses of animal oils vary greatly depending on the animal and the part of the animal from which the oil is extracted.

Common sources of animal oils include marine mammals like whales and seals, as well as land animals such as cattle, sheep, and pigs. For example, whale oil, historically a significant commodity, was used for lighting, lubrication, and in the manufacture of soap and candles. Lard, rendered from pig fat, is a well-known cooking fat. Tallow, rendered from cattle or sheep fat, has found applications in soap making, candles, and as a cooking ingredient. Fish oils, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, are often consumed as dietary supplements for their perceived health benefits.

The extraction processes for animal oils can involve rendering, pressing, or boiling. Rendering involves heating fatty tissues to separate the oil from the solid components. Pressing is used for certain types of fat, while boiling can also release oils from animal parts. The resulting oils can be further refined to improve their purity and stability. The use of animal oils has evolved over time, with synthetic alternatives and plant-based oils becoming more prevalent in many applications. However, animal oils continue to be utilized in certain traditional, industrial, and specialized contexts.