When we go to a grocery store, we often see different types of cooking oils, and sunflower oil is one of the most popular ones. But have you ever wondered how is sunflower oil made?
Step-by-Step Process of Making Sunflower Oil
Step 1: Sunflower Seeds Cleaning
The sunflower seeds are first cleaned to remove any impurities like dirt, stones, or other debris. The cleaning process ensures that the seeds are in good condition and ready for further processing.
Step 2: Pressing
The cleaned sunflower seeds are then sent to a press where they are crushed to extract oil. There are different types of presses used for this purpose, such as screw presses, hydraulic presses, and expeller presses. The press creates pressure and friction, which cracks the outer shell of the sunflower seeds and releases the oil.
Step 3: Filtering
The next step is filtering the extracted oil to remove any impurities and ensure that the oil is clean and pure. This is usually done by passing the oil through a filter like a cloth, paper, or mesh.
Step 4: Refining
Refining the oil is the final step in making sunflower oil. The process involves removing any remaining impurities, such as free fatty acids, waxes, or gums. This is done through a process called degumming, which uses chemicals like phosphoric acid or citric acid. The oil is then bleached and deodorized.
Uses of Sunflower Oil
Sunflower oil has many uses, and it's a popular oil in cooking, especially in frying and baking due to its high smoke point. It's also used in the food industry to make snacks like chips and popcorns. In addition to that, sunflower oil is an important ingredient in cosmetic and skincare products due to its moisturizing and nourishing properties.
Conclusion
Making sunflower oil is a complex process that involves cleaning, pressing, filtering, and refining. However, the end result is a versatile and healthy oil that can be used in many different ways.
