palmöljystä

Palm oil is a vegetable oil derived from the fruit of oil palm trees. It is a versatile ingredient used in a wide range of food products, cosmetics, and household cleaning items. The oil palm is native to tropical regions, and its cultivation is concentrated in Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia and Malaysia, which are the world's largest producers.

There are two types of oil extracted from the fruit: crude palm oil from the pulp and palm kernel oil from the seed. Palm oil is highly efficient to produce, yielding more oil per hectare than any other vegetable oil crop. This high yield contributes to its widespread use and affordability.

However, the expansion of palm oil plantations has been linked to significant environmental and social concerns. Deforestation, habitat loss for endangered species like orangutans, and greenhouse gas emissions from land clearing are major issues. Social impacts can include land rights disputes and labor concerns.

In response to these concerns, various initiatives and certifications have emerged, such as the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO). These aim to promote the production and use of sustainable palm oil that minimizes environmental and social harm. Consumers and businesses are increasingly seeking out certified sustainable palm oil to address these challenges.