Öljykasvien

Öljykasvien, literally translating to "oil plants" in Finnish, refers to a group of flowering plants cultivated primarily for the extraction of edible and industrial oils. They belong largely to the families Brassicaceae (e.g., canola, mustard), Asteraceae (e.g., sunflower), and Fabaceae (e.g., soybean). In Finland, these crops are grown mainly for food oil production, biofuel feedstock, and as protein-rich animal feed.

The most widely cultivated oilseed crops in Finland are rapeseed (Canola), sunflower (Helianthus annuus), and soybean (Glycine max). Rapeseed is prized for its low erucic acid content and high erucic acid‑free oil, making it well suited for cooking and margarine production. Sunflower seeds provide a high‑yield oil with a mild flavor, while soybean oil is valued for its balanced fatty acid profile and versatility in thermal processing. Smaller scale cultivation of mustard, canola, and flax is increasingly pursued for specialty products and niche markets.

Oils from öljykasvien are extracted through pressing or solvent extraction, followed by refining processes such as degumming, neutralization, bleaching, and deodorisation. The refined oil is rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, often supplemented with vitamins A, D, E, and essential phytosterols. By-products of process, particularly press cakes, are high in protein and employed as livestock feed, contributing to circular nutrient cycles.

Finland’s agricultural policies have promoted öljykasvien cultivation as part of a transition toward renewable resources. Policies aim to increase crop yields, improve seed quality, and extend the use of oilseed feedstock in biofuel production. Ongoing research focuses on breeding programs for improved disease resistance, higher oil content, and tolerance to colder climates. These efforts align with global sustainability trends, positioning öljykasvien as key players in food security, renewable energy, and environmentally conscious agricultural production.