Rapeseed Oil – What Is It?

Rapeseed oil comes from crushing the seed of a Rape plant.

Rapeseed, also called Colza, is a member of the Cruciferae family and grows to a height of 75-175cm. It has yellow flowers, bluegreen leaves and is heavily branched with deep, fibrous taproot. The seeds are small, round and black in colour.

What we today term rapeseed actually comprises of different varieties within the Brassica family which are very similar: Brassica Napus (Rapeseed) and Brassica Rapa (Turnip Rapeseed).

Rapeseed is one of the oldest cultivated plants on earth and has been used throughout the centuries mainly as a lubricant or for lighting.

 

Today Rapeseed oil is one of the most important vegetable oils for human consumption.

Rapeseed oil contains 98% of tri-esters of fatty acids and 2% of sterols and tocopherols. It has a uniquely low content of saturated fatty acids and a high content of monosaturated fatty acids.

Once refined, the oil becomes flavorless and a light yellow/golden colour meaning it doesn’t change the colour or taste of any food you are wanting to produce with it.

Facts

Important Crop

Rapeseed is the 3rd most important crop in the UK.

UK Grown

Rapeseed us UK grown but can also grow in many European countries.

Yield

The yield from a Rapeseed plant is approximately between 42-45%.

High Smoke Point

Rapeseed oil has a high smoke point making it ideal for frying.

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