puuvillansiemeniä

Puuvillansiemeniä refers to the seeds of the cotton plant (Gossypium species). After the cotton fibers are harvested, the seeds remain. These seeds are valuable for two primary purposes: planting to grow more cotton and extraction of cottonseed oil. Cottonseed oil is a widely used vegetable oil with various applications in food and industrial products. The seeds are also a source of protein and fiber, making them a component in animal feed.

The process of separating the seeds from the cotton fibers is known as delinting. Cottonseed oil is extracted through mechanical pressing or solvent extraction. The resulting crude oil is then refined to remove impurities, making it suitable for consumption and other uses. Refined cottonseed oil has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, making it versatile for cooking, frying, and baking. It is also used in the production of margarine, salad dressings, and shortening.

Beyond edible oil, cottonseed oil finds applications in the manufacturing of soaps, cosmetics, and even pharmaceuticals. The cake or meal left after oil extraction is a nutrient-rich byproduct used as a protein supplement in livestock feed. However, raw cottonseed contains gossypol, a toxic compound that must be removed or neutralized before it can be safely fed to non-ruminant animals or humans. Breeding and processing advancements have significantly reduced the levels of gossypol in edible and feed products. Cottonseed itself is also used as planting material for the next generation of cotton crops, ensuring the continuation of cotton cultivation.