Unikkoöljyä

Unikkoöljyä is a Finnish term that translates to "poppy seed oil". It refers to the oil extracted from the seeds of the opium poppy plant (Papaver somniferum). While the poppy plant is also known for producing opium, the seeds themselves do not contain significant amounts of narcotic compounds. Poppy seeds are a common ingredient in baking and are often used as a garnish for breads, pastries, and cakes.

Unikkoöljyä, or poppy seed oil, has a mild, nutty flavor and is often used in culinary applications. It can be used in salad dressings, marinades, or as a finishing oil for various dishes. In some traditions, it has also been used for its perceived health benefits, though scientific evidence for many of these claims is limited. The oil is a source of polyunsaturated fatty acids, including linoleic acid.

The cultivation of opium poppies and the production of poppy seed oil are subject to regulations in many countries due to the plant's association with opium production. However, poppy seeds are widely available and used globally in food products. The oil is typically a pale yellow or greenish-yellow liquid. Its smoke point is relatively low, making it more suitable for low-heat cooking or as a flavoring agent rather than for high-temperature frying.