Rapeseed Oil, Canola Oil, 8002-13-9

Rapeseed Oil, Canola Oil, 8002-13-9

RAPESEED OIL

CAS: 8002-13-9
Other Names: AKOREX L, LIPEX CANOLA-U, BRASSICA NAPUS OIL, ColdPressedCanolaOil, HIGHERUCICACIDRAPESEEDOIL, BRASSICA CAMPESTRIS (RAPESEED) SEED OIL, RAPESEED OIL FROM BRASSICA RAPA, NATURAL
EINECS: 232-299-0

Introduction and Cultivation in Turkey

Rapeseed entered Turkey as a vegetable oil source during World War II and was first cultivated in the Thrace Region. Following this, it spread to South Marmara, Southeast Anatolia, the Mediterranean, Çukurova, the Aegean, Central Anatolia, and the Black Sea regions.

The rapeseed plant produces seeds in pod-like capsules. The seeds are dark brown to black in color and weigh between 3 and 7 grams. Rapeseed oil is very light in color, odorless, and flavorless. The plant is easy to cultivate, making the oil more economical compared to other varieties.

Unlike sunflower or olive trees, rapeseed is a low-maintenance plant that adapts to various climates and soil types. It grows quickly, yields easily, and is resistant to both drought and frost.

What is Rapeseed Oil? Properties

The rapeseed plant contains 15-24% protein and 40-50% oil. The oil extracted from it is rich in linoleic and oleic acid. One tablespoon (approximately 14 grams) of rapeseed oil contains:

• 120 calories

• 1 g saturated fat

• 4 g polyunsaturated fat

• 8 g monounsaturated fat

Rapeseed oil has a high smoke point and is also known as "rapiska" or "rapitsa." Approximately 450 grams of oil can be obtained from 1 kg of rapeseed.

Industrial Uses:

• Biodiesel is produced through the reaction of rapeseed oil with methanol.

• Waste rapeseed oil is used for fuel production.

• It was historically used as a lubricant in steam engines.

• Since the 1950s, it has also been used in cooking.

By-product:
The residue left after oil extraction (rapeseed meal) is high in protein and is used as valuable animal feed.

Toxicity and Genetic Modification:
Traditional rapeseed contains toxic components: erucic acid and glucosinolates. Due to health risks for humans and animals, the cultivation of traditional rapeseed was banned in Turkey in 1979.

Through plant breeding, these harmful substances were eliminated. The improved version of the plant is known as Canola. The name "Canola" comes from "Canadian Oil, Low Acid."

How is Rapeseed/Canola Oil Produced?

While traditional rapeseed is toxic, the genetically improved "canola" variety is safe for consumption. The oil is obtained from the seeds using the extraction method. Global production of rapeseed oil is approximately 22 million tons.

Leading Producing Countries:
England, Germany, France, Pakistan, Poland, Canada, India, and China.

Heat Resistance:
Canola oil is rich in unsaturated fatty acids and can withstand temperatures up to 200°C (392°F). While virgin rapeseed oil is richer in monounsaturated fats than olive oil, its low heat tolerance (120°C / 248°F) initially prevented its use in cooking.

How is Rapeseed Oil Used?

Food Industry:
It is widely used in bread, margarine, canned goods, and processed foods. Although it is healthier to consume cold (in salads, sauces, and appetizers) because high heat can create harmful compounds, its neutral flavor makes it common in baking and frying.

Non-Food Uses:

• Biofuel and biodiesel

• Varnish

• Lubricants

• Pesticides

• Newspaper ink

• Synthetic rubber

• Soap

• Industrial oils

• Cosmetics (lipstick)

• Candles

Automotive Fuel:
In the EU, rapeseed is often grown for biodiesel. New car models can run on rapeseed-derived diesel easily. Older models may require modifications to hoses and gaskets due to the oil's chemical aggressiveness.

Benefits of Rapeseed/Canola Oil

1. Low Saturated Fat: Contains only 7% saturated fat, compared to sunflower oil (12%) and olive oil (15%).

2. Rich in Omega-3: Supports healthy nervous system development and brain function.

3. Cholesterol Management: Helps lower blood cholesterol levels due to its low monounsaturated fat profile.

4. Vitamins & Antioxidants: High in Vitamin E, and also contains Vitamins A, D, and K. Its antioxidant properties are beneficial for skin health.

5. Digestive Health: Increases bowel movements and helps prevent constipation.

6. Bone Health: As a good source of Vitamin D, it protects children from bone diseases like rickets and supports muscle and bone development.

Harms and Risks of Rapeseed Oil

Despite its benefits, traditional (unmodified) rapeseed oil carries significant risks:

• Heart Health: Can have negative effects on cardiovascular health.

• Overconsumption Side Effects: Anemia, constipation, vision damage, and hypersensitivity.

• Organ Damage: Can cause permanent damage to the kidneys and adrenal glands.

• Nervous System: High levels of erucic acid can damage the circulatory and nervous systems.

• Cancer Risk: May increase the risk of lung cancer.

• Trans Fat: The use of rapeseed oil in margarines increases the risks associated with trans fats.

Conclusion:
Traditional rapeseed oil is a controversial oil. While it has benefits, its risks are significant. It should be consumed with caution due to its toxic components. Even when consuming the genetically modified "Canola" version, one should be aware that it is a GMO product.

What is the Difference Between Canola and Rapeseed?

The main difference between Canola and traditional Rapeseed oil is the presence or absence of erucic acid and glucosinolates.

• Rapeseed Oil: Contains high levels of erucic acid and glucosinolates, which are toxic in large amounts.

• Canola Oil: Derived from plants that have been bred to contain less than 2% erucic acid and low levels of glucosinolates, making it safe for human and animal consumption.