Clearing Up the Vitamin E Controversy - What is the Best Vitamin E to Take?

Vitamin E is arguably the most important antioxidant utilized by the body. It protects the body from harmful free-radical damage, and plays an important role in protecting cell membranes because it helps neutralize free radical molecules before they enter the cells.

Vitamin E assists in protecting the lungs, liver, eyes, and arteries. It is a key factor in the normal function of the immune system. Studies have also suggested that it helps lowers cholesterol. This vitamin is commonly the most misunderstood due to its characteristics and different forms. 

Many ask:

What is the best vitamin E to take?

The answer is actually a combination of several different forms of Vitamin E.

Many people view Vita. E as a single entity. However, it is actually a family of eight different compounds, whose sub-categories are named Tocopherols and Tocotrienols. Each of these two sub-categories of Vit. E is further broken down into alpha, beta, gamma, and delta forms.

The most heavily studied form of Vit. E is d-alpha tocopherol. While d-alpha tocopherol is considered the most biologically active form of Vita. E inside the body, newer studies are concluding that gamma-tocopherol has powerful antioxidant capabilities as well. Gamma-tocopherol is thought to be a perfect complement to the d-alpha form.

Studies are also suggesting that in certain systems, the other forms of Vitamin E, Tocotrienols, may be even more powerful antioxidants than the heavily studied tocopherol forms. Tocotrienols may also help reduce cholesterol levels and may have beneficial effects on cardiovascular health.

Now that we understand what exactly Vit. E is, we must now consider what types of Vit. E to look for when choosing a product. Consider Vitamin E product that has all eight forms of the vitamin in it, as each from has its own unique and beneficial properties. The thing to understand is that all eight forms work together synergistically to provide a greater overall effect than any single form by itself.

When choosing a Vitamin E product, make sure that it comes from natural sources - NEVER CHOOSE A PRODUCT THAT CONTAINS SYNTHETIC VITAMIN E IN THE FORM OF VITAMIN E ACETATE! Studies have shown that this form is actually not good for your health (if you can recall, in the last year, there was a large study broad casted all over the media which stated that "Vitamin E" may be bad for your health. What the media failed to tell consumers was that synthetic Vit. E Acetate is bad for you, not all forms of Vita. E, as this was the form used in the study.)

Finally, make sure that the majority form of Vit. E contained in the product is d-alpha tocopherol (unesterified vitamin E). The Tocotrienols should come from palm oil, as palm oil has the optimal alpha-beta-delta-gamma form ratio compared to other Tocotrienols sources.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1754452

Production, Transportation, Refining and Distribution of Palm Oil

What is actually involved in bring it to supermarkets and homes? It can be purchased in bottles and is popular in countries that have embraced it as a cooking oil. Some of us might not be aware that it can also be present in many of the products that we enjoy eating. Even many of the popular scented soap brands use Palm Oil as a major ingredient in the manufacturing process. Palm is plentiful and a major source of vegetable and cooking oil. If you happen to live in countries like Malaysia and Indonesia, you cannot help but notice that certain parts of the countryside are populated with millions of palm trees. Palm Oil has become a major commodity on the world market and it is a growing industry and can even be used to produce biofuel.

First of all the Palm Trees have to be picked. It is actually the seeds that contain the oil. These seeds are then crushed in a Mill and separated by process systems to produce something called CPO (crude palm oil).

Once the mill is satisfied with the quality of the oil it can be transported to refineries. If it is being transported by land it will most likely be kept in large containers on trucks. These trucks will deliver the product to refineries who will process it even further into purer oil. When palm oil is being delivered to refineries it is either sampled manually or goes through electronic "palm oil quality monitors"

CPO Refineries are always watching the price of the commodity which is also traded on the stock market so timing can be important.

Finally, these refined products are sold to agents and distributors in smaller quantities who then use the palm oil as a base product or a component of goods that will be found on supermarket shelves and used in homes.

Palm competes with other types of oil such as Canola and Sunflower Oil. The distribution of palm oil and palm oil related products will depend mostly on the preferences of end manufacturers of products which also can be influenced by consumer preferences. Palm for cooking is highly respected in countries like Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia where it is commonly found in restaurant food. There are many benefits to using Palm Oil in these locations but one of the major benefits is that it will be competitively priced compared to other types of vegetable oil which might be costlier to import.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6147210

Rapid Thermal Processing to Convert Oil Palm Biomass Into a Premium Renewable Energy Source

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Rapid Thermal Processing or "RTP™" is a process which adds value to biomass. In this particular case, it can be used to convert oil palm biomass into bio-oil, which can then be served to other purposes such as a renewable source of energy. Large-scale experiments have shown that the quality and yield of the resulting bio-oil is so viable, it can be considered as a premium renewable energy. Among the intended uses being renewable transport fuels. This method of producing a renewable source of energy is based on the introduction of heat to efficiently convert oil palm biomass to produce high value products. The result is a premium renewable energy source which can be used for various purposes including power generators, green diesel and can even replace jet fuel.

The conversion of oil-palm biomass through RTP™ technology in producing a renewable energy source of fuel such as bio-oil is currently under research and development. Such pyrolysis technology exists, and has operated on a long-term commercial basis which converts the solid biomass to liquid in less than two seconds. The result is simply renewable energy from oil palm biomass. Basically, it is a fast thermal process where the biomass is introduced into a vessel and rapidly heated to 500 deg C by a tornado of hot sand and then rapidly cooled within seconds. It generates a relatively high yield (up to 75% per weight of biomass) of pourable, liquid "bio-oil" from residual forestry or agricultural product, in this case oil palm biomass. Pyrolysis technology exploits the thermo-chemical process of decomposing organic material at elevated temperatures in the absence of oxygen. It typically occurs under pressure and operates at high temperatures (above 430 deg C).

This process is the basis of several methods that are being developed for producing premium renewable energy from oil palm biomass. The process is self-sustaining as it is economical, where the byproducts produced from this process are used to generate much of the heat and power required to operate the unit. It produces very little byproducts: notably char which is consumed internally to generate the required heat for the rapid thermal process; and gas, which can be used for drying the incoming biomass or for heating integration into the overall facility. From here it is clear that rapid thermal processing in converting oil palm biomass into a premium renewable energy source provides an answer to the energy debate. The resulting clean renewable energy can be used to replace fossil fuels without the expense of changing the infrastructure of fuel engine technology, like the issue with bio-diesel. Faiz Suberi is currently a consultant for Premium Renewable Energy (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. Also known as PRE Malaysia, they focus on the production of bio-oil from oil palm biomass as a source of green renewable energy.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5118670

Vitamin E - Did You Know Palm Oil Is Packed With This Nutritional Supplement?

Vitamin E: The briefest of introduction!

A combination of 8 related molecules known as tocopherols constitute the Vitamin E. The most biologically active amongst them are Alpha-Tocoperols and they are responsible for most of the benefits the body receives from the absorption of this particular nutritional supplement It is a stable fat-soluble vitamin, which means that our body can easily break down its potency and nutrients. The daily allowance for Vitamin E, as recommended by the US FDA is measured at 8 to 10 milligrams (15 IU) per day. There are a number of experts however who recommend a much large daily dosage such as Dr. William Shute. (In his widely acclaimed Book of Vitamins, he suggests a daily dose of at least 800 (up to 1600) IU.) This high dosage is thought to play a beneficial part in the prevention of arterial degeneration, which is a devastating vascular damage caused by diabetes.

Vitamin E: How is it beneficial. (If you must know something, then let it be the following!)

According to a research conducted by the folks at Yale University, the unwelcome physical decline that goes hand in hand with aging can be positively affected by a daily intake of this substance. This doesn't mean old folks who were finding difficult to get out of bed will all of sudden be able to leap out in one graceful jump but research did show a gradual rebuilding of vitality which transferred over to a better overall health.

Vitamin E and Diabetics:

In a Swedish Study, Vitamin E therapy as a treatment for diabetes was put forward and supported. The findings includes suggestions such as an advisable daily intake dose of 200 IU of vitamin E over the course of two weeks. The study suggests that Vitamin E helps decrease the insulin requirements of Diabetic patients.

Breast Cancer and Vitamin E: In a society ravaged with an alarming number of women diagnosed with Breast Cancer, vitamin E, taken in proper form appears to be a considered method of reducing the risk of this illness. A number of studies have demonstrated that the risk of contracting Breast Cancer double for women with low levels of vitamin E when compared with those who take the recommended minimum requirements. These studies indicate that some Vitamin E components found in food may be the reason for the reduction in Cancer of the Breast incidence .
There are two classes of Vitamin E:

1. Tocopherol, the form usually found in supplements
2. Tocotrienol, found in food. For example palm oil .

Foods rich in Vitamin E are:

• Oils: vegetable oils such as palm oil, sunflower, corn, soybean, and olive oil.
• Good sources of vitamin e are egg yolk, margarine, Parmesan,cheddar,chickpeas, soya beans, avocados, olives, carrots, parsnips, red peppers, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, sweet corn, and watercress.
• Other sources can be found in fish, goats milk, whole grains,wheat or cereal germ, oatmeal, whole grain products peanut butter, fruits, vegetables, milk and all whole raw or sprouted seeds. Because of the hectic life we seemingly lead in this modern world

Did you know?Vitamin E supplements and all Dietary supplements are measured in international units (IU) .

Did you also know that the word 'Vitamin" is the combination of two words proposed by Dr. Cacimir Fun who in 1911 talked about "Vita Amine" when referring to a new food substance used in the cure of beri-beri.

Several decades later, the final "e" was dropped and a new word was created: Vitamin! Vitamins as micro-nutrients were actually discovered earlier (1887) when Dr.Eijkman who was studying a disease in Indonesia called beriberi realized that fowl who were fed with polished rice developed the disease whereas those fed on crudely milled rice did not.

Nutrition has always been the best source for our supplemental needs. Vitamin E is not different and can be found in all the food sources mentioned above. If you choose to take Vitamin E in supplemental form, our best advise would be Organic Vitamins.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/974921

Palm Vitamin E Tocotrienols Benefits

Palm vitamin E tocotrienols significantly help increase immunity or to inhibit disease in our bodies. Vitamin E was first isolated and recognized nearly 60 years ago. It is fat soluble, widely distributed in foods and can even be stored in our bodies. As a result, vitamin E deficiency rarely occurs in mammals. It is present in all our tissues and cells and protects against the ravages of oxidative damage by free radicals formed in our body. It also plays an important role in the regulation of our immune system. In recent times, vitamin E has been discovered playing its role as an inhibitor of cell proliferation.
Vitamin E occurs in substantial amounts in oils and fats. Generally, the higher the polyunsaturated fatty acid content of oil, the higher the vitamin E requirement. An average ratio of vitamin E to polyunsaturated fatty acids of about 0.6 mg/g is highly desirable.
Vitamin E mostly occurs as alpha, gamma, and delta tocopherol. The composition of vitamin E in palm oil is, however, quite different. Only about 30% of its composition is tocopherol, whereas the rest occur as tocotrienols (alpha, gamma and delta) which are again different isometric forms of vitamin E.
Apart from palm oil, rice bran, wheat germ and barley germ oils are good sources of the tocotrienols.

Benefits of Vitamin E Palm Tocotrienols
Tocotrienols have a chemical structure that is slightly different from the tocopherols.
Research has already determined that this structural difference, while allow it to perform all the classic functions of vitamin E, additionally confers important biological and physiological properties that are not noticeable in tocopherols.
Good manufacturing practice ensures that a substantial amount of palm vitamin E is retained in palm olein, commonly used as cooking oil in our Asian cooking. When crude palm oil is refined, a portion of its vitamin E is concentrated as a by-product, called palm fatty acid distillate (PFAD).
Now, innovative technologies allow the recovery of this palm vitamin E as a concentrate that contains about 30% tocopherols and 70% tocotrienols. Palm vitamin E is now commercially available in Malaysia and other regions.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4982433

Palm Kernel Oil - A Good Household Remedy for Children's Ailments

From the recent trend of medicinal research, which has to do with plants and their extract, and the results obtained and published so far, one can say that nature (God of creation) has bestowed on man all he has need of. Palm kernel oil for instance, is used in African (Nigeria) medicine to treat a number of ailments that affect infants- such as convulsion. Every little plant we see around us is likely to contain one or more substance (components) that is a likely cure one or more ailments. Although research has shown some of them to be poisonous. For instance, there is a claim by the Yoruba's in Nigeria- West Africa, that the roots of maize can be used as a poison.

Palm Kernel oil (PKO), which is obtained from Oil palm tree is the second oil that can be extracted from the tree. While palm oil is extracted from the mesocarp- the fleshly cover of the oil palm seed, PKO is extracted from the endocarp- the nut itself after breaking. Of all the about 200 edible oils, PKO and Coconut oil (CNO) are the only two that contains lauric acid, hence they are called lauric oil. Both palm oil and palm kernel oil are obtained from the same tree known as- Elaeis guineensis. The two trees producing PKO, CNO and Palm oil are also similar in that they are both called palms, even though they of different species. Traditionally, the production of PKO involves the following: the nuts obtained after palm oil production is cracked to obtain the kernels, the kernels are then heated in a clean pot until the oils are extracted from the kernels, and the oil is then poured out (decanted) from the pot into clean bottles for use or sale. In some part of Nigeria 750ml of the oil cost N200 Nigerian currencies, which is about 1.5 U.S dollars. The oil obtained is dark min color.

PKO can be used to treat ailments like cold, catarrh, cough, convulsion, skin infection and stomach upset among others disorders that affect children (as well as adults).

• For catarrh, cold and convulsion, particularly in children; simply rub the oil all over the child's body consistently- say thrice a day for about 7 days and be sure the ailment will be gone in about 10 days. In the course of doing this evidence abound that the skin of such child will be prevented from being infected by some skin pathogens.

• For cough and stomach upset/ disorder, taking a 5ml twice daily orally will suppress the cough and stomach disorder. In addition to this is the fact that it serves has a purgative, this may not be unconnected with the oily nature of the extract although the phytochemical constituents may also be responsible for this effect.

• Lastly, though like a superstitious believe is the claim of its use in some parts of Akwa-Ibom in Nigeria, as a repeller of witches. The claim is that when burned the aroma of the oil drives away witches.

In conclusion, the traditionally extracted Palm Kernel Oil is of great medicinal value not only for children but also for adults, and it's healing potential for the ailments mentioned earlier is an indication of its antimicrobial properties for the microbes causing some of those ailments.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6286908

The Best Way To Take Care Of Your Skin With Palm Oil

Dry skin feels rough to the touch and uncomfortable to live in. Drying soaps, cold weather, and the constant assault from UV rays and ozone can all lead to dryness. They also cause actual skin damage and cellular break down. Fortunately, palm oil is a helpful antidote.

This oil comes from the palm Elaeis guineensis, not to be confused with the more familiar coconut palm tree. There are two types of oils derived from the Elaeis guineensis: palm oil and palm kernel oil. Palm kernel oil is pressed from the seed; palm oil comes from the fruit. Both are used in natural skin care products to protect, repair and rebuild the skin.

Vitamin E has become synonymous with skin health as a protective anti-oxidant and a skin-rebuilding agent. While all vitamin E is good for the skin, some plants produce a form that is better than other forms, and palm oil contains one of the best. The form of vitamin E in high concentration is a group called tocotrienols. Vitamin E is an anti-oxidant that both protects the skin from damage and helps to repair damage. And to make this oil even better for the skin, it contains large amounts of vitamin A, another fat-soluble anti-oxidant molecule that brings major benefits to the skin. In fact, the rich red color of the oil comes from its high concentration of carotenoids - the carotenoids are where the vitamin A is found.

Anti-oxidants are molecules that prevent oxidization and breakdown of cells both in the skin and in the rest of the body. These anti-oxidizing molecules keep skin looking young and healthy by protecting cells from damage and premature aging. That is why palm oil, applied topically to the skin, can help reduce damage from the sun and from ozone by preventing the cells from oxidizing. At the same time, it supports the rebuilding of damaged cells by supplying the body with ingredients for cell regeneration.

With age, skin loses much of its natural oils and skin cells begin to break down causing fine lines to appear. Natural plant oils help to rebuild the skin and cause the cells to plump up. As the cells plump up, the appearance of fine lines is reduced.

You can use palm oil alone or as part of a natural face or body cream to protect and repair your skin from the assaults of daily life. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6739612

Is Biodiesel Made From Palm Oil Threatening ..?

Many environmental organisations and conservationists have been warning us that eating foods and using biodiesel made from palm oil is having a direct effect upon and threatening the survival of that much loved primate the Orangutan.

So what's all the fuss about?

Environmentalists have generally been largely supportive of the adoption of biodiesel because, apart from being biodegradable, it gives off fewer emissions when used in our vehicles. Not all biodiesel fuel is the same however, some are better than others in the way they are produced and environmental organisations have begun to question oil palm cultivation especially, in recent years, how large areas of natural rainforest have been cleared to make way for oil palm plantations. It is argued that apart from the loss of forest ecosystems, oil palm cultivation has become a major polluter on a local level due to indiscriminate use of petroleum based pesticides and fertilizers. This has lead to soils becoming so polluted over time that many previously fertile areas have become wastelands.

What has given rise to this deforestation?

Western governments have largely embraced the need to cut emissions and have set aggressive targets encompassing the use of so called first generation Biofuels made from food crops. The transportation sector has been singled out due to the fact it is a major volume source of carbon emissions. It could be argued that this has contributed directly to the rapid development of the Biofuels industry and marketplace. Also the rise in the cost of crude oil to record levels by mid 2008 meant palm oil has become an increasingly important agricultural crop in tropical countries with Malaysia and Indonesia seeing the opportunity for increased exploitation. These two countries account now for around 85% of palm oil production across the world. This area of the world is also the natural habitat of Orangutans and the increased deforestation is now a threat to their very existence.

But why is Palm Oil so important?

Quite simply oil palm is the most productive oil seed there is and it can produce over 10 times more crude oil per hectare than soybeans and over 20 times more than corn. Another factor making palm oil in increasing demand is apart from being used in Biodiesel production, it is also used as an ingredient in many other day to day household foodstuffs as well as cosmetics. Ironically, oil palm may be more ecologically friendly due its higher yield factor in theory requiring less land by a significant factor than traditional crops. Many environmental organisations, oil companies and western governments recognise this and are beginning to try to put the case to the local governments concerned.

But oil prices are going down now so will demand for palm oil drop?

Palm oil prices tend to move in step with the price of crude oil and during the second half of 2008 prices have fallen rapidly also as a result of the global recession demand for palm oil should slow down. Critically, does this mean we will see a slow down in the expansion of oil palm plantations? Supply and demand economics for palm oil suggest it should do, but the sceptics amongst us have maintained that oil palm development may in fact be a cover for something that is far more profitable - logging. In Indonesia millions of hectares of forest have been cleared for plantation development and plans are in place to double oil palm production over the next 15 to 20 years spilling over into Borneo. Logging is a much more profitable to both the logging companies and the local governments.

What of the Orangutans?
I'm not sure Orangutans understand the economics and politics in their region of the world. If they did then it is likely they would be putting pressure on the governments both locally and around the world to re-consider the plans they have for what is still the largest tropical rainforest in Asia. Perhaps the local agricultural ministers in question should look at the mounting pressure from the West, look to their conscience and re-evaluate all available information. Perhaps they would then realise that the long term survival of the regions biodiversity is not only crucial for local indigenous peoples but also our friendly Orangutans and who knows perhaps the very survival of our planet in the long term.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1723743

Clean Development Mechanism: A Mechanism To Combat Climate Change

As growing concerns and public awareness continued throughout the 1980's, several United Nations General Assembly resolutions were adopted namely resolutions 44/228 of 22 December 1989, 43/53 of 6 December 1988, 44/207 of 22 December 1989, 45/212 of 21 December 1990 and 46/169 of 19 December 1991, urging for the protection of global climate for present and future generations of mankind.

The Second World Climate Conference on 7 November 1990 called for a framework of treaty and protocols on climate change. Thus on 9 May 1992, the environmental treaty, United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change ("UNFCCC") was opened for members' signature. It entered into force on 21 March 1994. As of 11 April 2007, 191 countries and economic community have ratified the UNFCCC.

UNFCCC is concerned "that human activities have been substantially increasing the atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases, that these increases enhance the natural greenhouse effect, and that this will result on average in an additional warming of the Earth's surface and atmosphere and may adversely affect natural ecosystems and humankind."

UNFCCC's main objective is to achieve "stabilization of greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that would prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system. Such a level should be achieved within a time frame sufficient to allow ecosystems to adapt naturally to climate change, to ensure that food production is not threatened and to enable economic development to proceed in a sustainable manner."

The Kyoto Protocol ("the Protocol") an agreement made under the UNFCCC was adopted on 11 December 1997 and came into force on 16 February 2005. The Protocol provides for stronger and detailed commitments committing developed countries and countries under process of transition to a market economy to legally-binding targets to limit or reduce their greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) (with the exception of Australia, Croatia, Turkey and USA, which have not ratified the Protocol. These countries and ultimately corporations within those countries are known as Annex 1 Parties. The Annex I Parties committed themselves to reduce their overall GHGs by at least 5% below the 1990 levels over the period between 2008 and 2012. Their GHGs reduction targets are specified in the Protocol and vary from country to country.

The GHGs identified in the Protocol are carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), perfluorocarbons (PFCs) and sulphur hexafluoride (SF6). The Protocol allows the Annex I Parties to decide which of these gases will form part of their national emissions reductions strategy.

The Protocol provided three mechanisms to assist Annex I Parties in meeting their GHGs targets at a lower cost. The three mechanisms introduced are; (a) emissions trading, this allows Annex I Parties to trade parts of their emission allowances or assigned amount units ("AAUs") to other Annex I Parties - Article 17 of the Protocol; (b) joint implementation (JI), which allows Annex I Parties receive emissions reductions units ("ERUs") generate by emission reduction projects in the countries of other Annex I Parties. ERUs can be transferred through direct sale of ERUs or part of a return of investment in eligible JI projects - Article 6 of the Protocol; and (c) a Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), encourages joint projects between Annex I and non-Annex I (developing country) Parties. The non-Annex I Parties can create certified emissions reductions ("CERs") by developing projects that reduce emissions of GHGs thus achieving its national sustainable development goals. Annex I Parties finances these projects and purchase the CERs as a means to comply with its own reductions commitments - Article 12 of the Protocol.

Despite the agreement being approved in 1997, various negotiations were held thereafter to determine the proper operational details to implement the Protocol to enable the Protocol to function and accepted worldwide. Thus in 2001, the Marrakech Accords was signed that establishes detailed rules, procedures and modalities to implement the three mechanisms and stimulate active participation in the Protocol.

The Marrakech Accords laid down the eligibility criteria of a proposed CDM project; (a) it must be approved by the host country i.e. the Designated National Authority; (b) reduce GHG emissions to a baseline that is defined according to the CDM modalities and procedures; (c) contribute to the sustainable development goals of the host country (as defined by the host country). For Malaysia, her sustainable development goals cover the environment, social and economic aspects; (d) define exact, physical boundaries of project activities and consider leakage i.e. emissions occurring outside the project boundaries, related to the project activity; provide for stakeholder participation and consultation. Stakeholders are individuals, communities likely to be affected by the project such as local residents, non-governmental organisations and town councils; (e) exclude nuclear and large hydro technology; (f) prove that no resources are diverted from official development assistance (ODA). The term ODA applies to financial aid directed for other purposes must not be used to finance and support CDM projects; and (g) carried out only by countries that ratified the Protocol.

The high-level process of undertaking a CDM project include: (a) the completion of a project design document ("PDD") that describes the project activity, its purpose and the technology used; (b) submission of the PDD to a UNFCCC accredited operational entity ("DOE-A") for validation. If the project meets the validation criteria it will be registered by the CDM Executive Board. The operational entity is a third party that will assess the project design against the relevant UNFCCC and host country criteria. The important components of this are validating the baseline and checking that the project fulfils the additionality criteria. The concept of additionality is most directly captured by simulating the investment decision process, and confirming that a project would not be undertaken in the absence of payments for emission reductions. Such an analysis would require consideration not only of the potential returns to an investor, but also consideration of the riskiness of the returns [Ingmar Jurgens, Gustavo Best and Leslie Lipper 2004]; (c) implementation by the project participants of the validated plan by monitoring emissions reductions, collecting and reporting data; (d) periodic verification of emissions reductions by another UNFCCC accredited operational entity other that the one who validated the PDD ("DOE-B"); and (e) if the emissions reductions are verified and certified by the DOE-B then the CDM Executive Board will issue CERs which will be distributed to the national registries and accounts of the project participants.

Malaysia signed the UNFCCC on 9 June 1993 and ratified it on 13 July 1994. Malaysia ratified it the Protocol on 4 September 2002. The parties to the Protocol have agreed that renewable energy projects which are implemented as part of government policies to achieve sustainable development goals are eligible under the CDM.

This additional flexibility in the CDM rules not only reduce transaction costs for renewable energy projects, but also enable some smaller scale projects be recognized under the CDM. This flexibility is due to the high costs of renewable energy projects as compared to the conventional energy projects.

There are several types of project that qualify as CDM in Malaysia involving the renewable energy, energy efficiency improvement, forestry, waste management and transportation sectors.

As at 31 May 2007, there are 16 registered CDM projects in Malaysia and 31 projects with letter of approval provided by the Malaysian Designated National Authority. Not only CDM promotes investments from Annex I Parties, it also promotes the viability and increased use of renewable energy such as bio-diesel an alternative to diesel (derived from agricultural crops, wood, rice, sugar cane, empty fruit bunches, fibres and shells), biogas an alternative to natural gas (derived from plant and animal waste) and bio-ethanol an alternative to fuel (derived from agricultural crops, trees or grasses).

Malaysia considers the importance of having sustainable environment and has developed laws, national policies and plans towards achieving her sustainable development goals. Beginning from the Third Malaysia Plan (1976-1980), Eight Malaysia Plan (2001-2005), including the Outline Perspective Plan (OPP2 (1991-2000) and OPP3 (2001-2010) and thereafter the Fuel Diversification Policy introduced in 2001 recognises renewable energy ("RE") as the economy's fifth fuel after oil, coal, natural gas and hydro. The target was that RE contributes 5% of the country's electricity demand by 2005. Following the policy, the government granted tax incentives in the form of investment tax allowances, import duty and sales tax exemption until 2010.

The government also introduced the Small Renewable Energy Power Program ("SREP") aimed to promote RE as the fifth fuel. Other initiatives by the government through SREP include the Biomass Based Power Generation and Cogeneration for the Palm Oil Industry (BioGen) Project. The RM55.9 million BioGen project is funded by United Nations Development Programme, Global Environment Facility and the government. Among its goals are to reduce GHGs and to facilitate Malaysia's commitment to the Protocol.

RE projects not only reduce GHGs but also provide additional stream of revenue to the non Annex I Party through the sale of RE & CERs and allow technology to be transferred to the non Annex I Party.

With the presence of enabling laws, policies and tax allowances Malaysia has an enabling environment that is attractive to Annex I Parties looking to develop CDM projects in Malaysia.

CDM encourages developing countries like Malaysia to participate in the advancement of her sustainable development goals by placing CDM development as a priority and offering initiatives that are beneficial to the participants.

From Malaysia's perspective, CDM can: (a)attract investments for projects that can shift to a more thriving but less carbon-intensive industry; (b) allow active participation from private and public sectors ranging from various industries; (c) provide a mechanism to transfer technology if the investments from the Annex 1 countries are invested into projects that replaces inefficient fossil fuel technology or creates new technologies that are environmentally safe; and (d) help introduce new businesses in energy production.

Industrialization and modernization have led to the various consequences to the environment. However, with CDM beyond the financial benefits and technological assistance it may provide environmental benefits through carbon reduction benefits, reductions in air and water pollution, reduced fossil fuel use and the protection eco-systems.

In Malaysia, a substantial number of registered CDM projects come from the palm oil sector. There are several types of project that will contribute to better utilisation of technology in converting palm oil waste into fuel, extracting of gas from palm oil mill effluent retention ponds or water recycling of the palm oil mill effluent into treated water that will in turn improve the eco-system of the rivers.

On the social benefits, these projects would create employment opportunities in the target region thus progressing the social goals and address the environmental issues in the region.

In recent years, the demand for CER from developed countries has provided the opportunity of supporting CDM projects in developing countries. Since CDM projects is fairly new capacity building efforts need to be enhanced as many of the project developers are still understanding the CDM the process and the legal structure of the CDM projects. Not only project management is important, contract management is essentially important. The nature of the CER sale and purchase contract requires careful considerations as there are various important issues that may arise during the contract negotiations which may be a liability if not addressed carefully by both parties. Legal document structuring will provide the parties involved the basis support document that describes the risks and opportunities a CDM project can contribute to each party. A carefully chosen CER sale and purchase agreement models will provide parties the operational, strategic and legal advantages that will assist the parties in managing their relationship.

10 Top Reasons to Make Biodiesel

1. Biodiesel is EASY to make. You can make Biodiesel in your kitchen!. Anybody can make biodiesel.

2. Biodiesel is BETTER than the Petro-diesel fuel. Biodiesel is cleaner. It cuts down on targeted emission - better for the environment and better for health.

3. Biodiesel provides good engine performance. Your diesel motor will run better and last longer on your home-made fuel.

4. The production and use of biodiesel create less carbon dioxide emission compared to petroleum diesel. Hence Causing less damage to the atmosphere.

5. The Raw Material for making Biodiesel is Renewable and Biodegradable.
You can make biodiesel from Vegetable Oil such as palm Oil.

6. Petroleum Oil Prices is increasing. Now, Biodiesel is at it's infancy. It is the best time for you to start experimenting with biodiesel and if you know how to make it, then when biodiesel is in demand, you will be at the top.

7. Biodiesel can be used neat or blended with petroleum diesel in any proportions.
So, when petroleum diesel is too highly priced, like it is now, your biodiesel will be very much in demand.

8. No modification is required on your diesel engine. Biodiesel operates in conventional combustion-ignition engines, from light to heavy-duty just like petroleum diesel and no engine modifications are required.

9. Fossil fuel is depleting. Fossil fuel products have been used by mankind as a source of energy and it was assumed that they will last forever. Time has changed: with fossil fuel on depletion and global warming on the increase, it is time to create a sustainable world.

 

10. Best of all is the GREAT feeling of freedom, independence and empowerment it will give you.

Palm Oil for Trans-Fat Challenges

When developing food products without trans-fatty acids, food scientists should consider formulating items with palm oil. Trans-fatty acids, in general, are thought to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer, and they are formed when fats are hydrogenated to make them more solid and extend their shelf life. Because palm oil is semi-solid naturally, it does not require hydrogenation.
Palm oil is extracted from the fruit of the oil palm, Elaeis guineensis. Unlike many other vegetable oils, the extraction is done without using solvents. Palm oil is the leading agricultural crop of Malaysia, which is the world's largest producer. The oil, from the flesh of the fruit, is refined to remove free fatty acids, color and unwanted flavor. It can be fractionated into many grades including olein (liquid oil) and steam (solids), depending on the solid fat level needed for functionality.

The fatty acid composition of palm oil is a mixture of 10% polyunsaturated, 40% monounsaturated and 50% saturated fatty acids. It is about 40% oleic, 10% linoleic, 45% palmitic and 5% stearic acid.
A Plethora of Possibilities
Palm oil is rich in antioxidants. These include beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A; and tocopherols and tocotrienols, vitamin E constituents. These scavengers of free radicals are thought to help protect people from cellular aging, atherosclerosis and cancer. Tests have shown that palm oil does not raise blood cholesterol levels. In fact, in several studies, blood cholesterol was reduced from entry-level values.
In a paper supplied by the Palm Oil Research Institute of Malaysia titled, "Trans Fatty Acids Free Food Formulation Based on Palm Oil and its Products," authors Noor Lida Habi Mat Dim and Mohd Suria Affandi Yusoff give formulations for several trans-fat free products using palm oil fractions, combinations with other oils and interesterified oils.

When developing food products without trans-fatty acids, food scientists should consider formulating items with palm oil. Trans-fatty acids, in general, are thought to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer, and they are formed when fats are hydrogenated to make them more solid and extend their shelf life. Because palm oil is semi-solid naturally, it does not require hydrogenation.
Palm oil is extracted from the fruit of the oil palm, Elaeis guineensis. Unlike many other vegetable oils, the extraction is done without using solvents. Palm oil is the leading agricultural crop of Malaysia, which is the world's largest producer. The oil, from the flesh of the fruit, is refined to remove free fatty acids, color and unwanted flavor. It can be fractionated into many grades including olein (liquid oil) and steam (solids), depending on the solid fat level needed for functionality.
Most RecentFood Articles

The fatty acid composition of palm oil is a mixture of 10% polyunsaturated, 40% monounsaturated and 50% saturated fatty acids. It is about 40% oleic, 10% linoleic, 45% palmitic and 5% stearic acid.
A Plethora of Possibilities
Palm oil is rich in antioxidants. These include beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A; and tocopherols and tocotrienols, vitamin E constituents. These scavengers of free radicals are thought to help protect people from cellular aging, atherosclerosis and cancer. Tests have shown that palm oil does not raise blood cholesterol levels. In fact, in several studies, blood cholesterol was reduced from entry-level values.
In a paper supplied by the Palm Oil Research Institute of Malaysia titled, "Trans Fatty Acids Free Food Formulation Based on Palm Oil and its Products," authors Noor Lida Habi Mat Dim and Mohd Suria Affandi Yusoff give formulations for several trans-fat free products using palm oil fractions, combinations with other oils and interesterified oils.
Table margarines and bakery shortenings need to be smooth, with a fine crystal structure, so that they can easily be spread and mixed. Bakery shortenings impart a tender quality to baked goods and contribute to the formation of their structure during cooking. Palm oil formulations showed good baking characteristics, producing cakes that were comparable in volume, texture, structure, flavor and eating characteristics when compared to a control of commercial shortening.
Frying oils must withstand high temperatures without breaking down or polymerizing quickly, and without oxidizing and turning rancid. Some oils have to be partially hydrogenated for this purpose. However, palm oil has a moderate linoleic acid content and small linolenic acid content, two polyunsaturated fatty acids that oxidize relatively quickly, as well as a high level of natural antioxidants. Several types of palm oil and palm olein can be used successfully in frying applications, without hydrogenation.
Cocoa butter substitutes should have the snap and crunch of chocolate and a melt-in-the mouth sensation. A fat similar to cocoa butter may be made from a POP-rich mid fraction (Palmitic-Oleic-Palmitic) of palm oil mixed with another oil fraction, or it can be produced by interesterification of palm olein. Interesterification of palm oil also produces confectionery fats that can be used, for example, as a butter cream filling for cookies.
In imitation dairy products, butterfat is replaced with vegetable oil, which lengthens their shelf life. Palm oil can be used in "filled" milks as well as in coffee whiteners or coffee creamers. It also can be used in ice cream and in imitation cheese in a fat blend.

Palm Trees Do More Than Shade You From The Sun.. Coconut Oil and Palm Oil Are Both Essential

Good Fats…Bad Fats…it can be very confusing to many of us. But despite a growing understanding of fats—what makes a good fat or a bad fat and why your body absolutely need fats. They also burn in the body at a faster rate. What's most interesting is that these MCTs provide your body with a number of health benefits.
Put Your Heart On Vacation!
Palm oil, long demonized for being high in saturated fats, actually helps to improve your cholesterol profile. You likely already know that you have two main types of cholesterol—one that can contribute to heart disease and one that protects against it. Well, palm oil helps to lower your bad cholesterol and raise your good. (1)
The fats in coconut oil are more stable than the fats you find in other vegetable derived oils. These fats aren't damaged when you cook with them. And they are less prone to oxidation in your body. These two facts together make coconut oil one of the healthiest oils for your heart. (2)
Other Health Advantages You Achieve With MCTs!
Using palm and coconut oils as a regular part of your diet can give you other advantages too.
Remember, your body burns MCTs at a faster rate than fats from other vegetable oils. This can mean a boost to your metabolism, which can help to promote weight loss. In one study, researchers had subjects supplement with either long-chain fatty acids or a combination of long-chain and medium chain fatty acids. The group receiving the medium chain fatty acids lost body fat and built lean muscle compared with the other group. (3)
In other animal studies, researchers have found that MCTs help the liver to function better and help to prevent the build up of fatty tissues within the liver. (4)
Because of its stability and its pleasant flavor, I highly recommend that you switch to coconut oil when it comes to cooking. (When choosing a coconut oil, look for one that has not been hydrogenated.) This switch will benefit your heart and your whole body.

How to Choose the Proper Cooking Oil

While cooking oils are pure fat, they are not created equal. All cooking oils are a combination of saturated, polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. It is the concentration of hydrogen that determines how they are categorized. Without getting too technical, the following information will hopefully provide a basic understanding of fats.

Saturated Fats:

Saturated fats are found in animal products and are converted into cholesterol by the liver. Butter, margarine, meats and dairy products are especially high in saturated fat. Saturated fat will elevate blood cholesterol levels and is associated with increased rates of heart disease and stroke. It is solid at room temperature.

Unsaturated Fats:

There are two types of unsaturated fats: monounsaturated and polyunsaturated. Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats do not raise blood cholesterol levels. Canola and olive oils contain the highest proportion of monounsaturated fat when compared with other cooking oils. Safflower and corn oil are the highest in polyunsaturated fats.

Trans Fats:

Trans fats are man-made or processed fats, which are made from a liquid oil. When hydrogen is added to liquid vegetable oil and pressure is added, the result is a stiffer fat, like the fat found in a can of Crisco. Trans fats are also called hydrogenated fats and are found in margarine and trans fat partially hydrogenated vegetable oils. Trans fats pose a greater risk of heart disease than saturated fats (which were once believed to be the worst kind of fats). While it is true that saturated fats (found in butter, cheese, beef, coconut and palm oil) raise total cholesterol levels, trans fats not only raise total cholesterol levels, they also deplete good cholesterol (HDL), which helps protect against heart disease.

Partially Hydrogenated Fats:

If you have health concerns, read food labels to see if they list "partially hydrogenated oil" as an ingredient. Partially hydrogenated oils are present in all commercially made donuts, crackers, cookies, pastries, deep-fat fried foods (including those from all major fast-food chains), potato and corn chips, imitation cheeses, and confectionery fats found in frosting and candies. All of these products contain unsaturated fats which can be damaged at high temperatures and converted to a trans fat.

Understanding the Difference between Refined and Unrefined Cooking Oils...

Refined Oils:

Refined oils are extracted by solvent extraction for further refining in order to produce clear oil that is free from rancidity and foreign matter. These oils are used as medium cooking oils (225°F to 350°F), high cooking oils (350°F to 450°F) and deep frying oils (greater than 450°F). Refined oils are bland and pale. They have negligible flavor and aroma which makes them ideal for preparing delicately flavored dishes. Use for baking, sauteing, stir-fry and wok cooking, baking, searing, browning, deep-frying and pan-frying.

Unrefined Oils:

Unrefined oils are processed by cold-pressed and expeller-pressed methods. They carry the true flavor of the plant from which the oil is made. The strong flavor of unrefined oils may overwhelm the dish or baked good that is prepared with them; however, strong flavor is not always undesirable and some unrefined oils are used as flavoring agents. (Generally, when there is a strong natural flavor and aroma, there is a higher amount of nutritional value.) These oils are typically called salad oils and are used for salad dressings, marinades, sauces and as light cooking oils for light sautes and low heat baking. As a general rule, they should not be cooked at high temperatures. (The one exception is unrefined safflower oil which is capable of reaching a temperature necessary for deep-frying.) Unrefined oils should not be used at temperatures above 320°F.

Various Cooking Oils and Recommended Use...

Some oils have low smoke points, which means that they will burn at low temperatures. These oils, typically called salad oils, are best used for salad dressings, marinades, sauces and as light cooking oils for light sautes and low heat baking. Other cooking oils have a high smoke point, which means that they can reach higher temperatures without smoking. These particular oils are ideal for deep-frying, pan-frying and sauteing. The information below will discuss various types of cooking oils and their recommended use.

Canola - Canola oil is a monounsaturated oil extracted from the seeds of a plant in the mustard family. It has a mild flavor and aroma and is most commonly available in a refined form. It has a bland flavor and is recommended for deep-frying, pan-frying, sauteing, baking and preparing salad dressings. Its mild flavor and relatively high smoke point (400°F) make refined canola oil a good all-purpose oil. Of all the cooking oils, canola has the least amount of saturated fat (6%) and is the least expensive.

Corn - Made from the germ of the corn kernel, corn oil is almost tasteless and is high in polyunsaturated fat (62%). It is used to make margarine, salad dressings and mayonnaise. With a smoke point of 450°F, it is excellent for pan-frying and deep-frying because it can withstand high temperatures without smoking.

Olive - Olive oil is a monounsaturated oil extracted from tree-ripened olives. The color may range from light amber to green with flavors that range from bland to extremely strong. Olive oil is graded according to its degree of acidity and the process used to extract the oil. Oil labeled "virgin" is cold pressed (a process using no heat or chemicals) and contains low levels of acidity. It provides the body with vitamins E and F. Oil labeled "pure" uses heat and chemicals to process olive residue from subsequent pressings. Unrefined olive oil has a smoke point of 320°F and is recommended for baking, sauteing, stir-frying and wok cooking.

Peanut - Made from pressed, steam-cooked peanuts, peanut oil contains 18% saturated fat. It has a bland flavor and is good for cooking because it doesn't absorb or transfer flavors. Frying with peanut oil gives foods a rich, nutty, roasted flavor. Refined peanut oil has a smoke point of 450°F and is recommended for stir-frying, wok cooking, pan-frying and deep-frying.

Safflower - Made from safflower seeds, safflower oil is pale yellow and almost flavorless. It has more polyunsaturated fat that other oils (78%) but lacks vitamin E. It is considered a good, all-purpose cooking oil. Safflower oil is a favorite for salads because it does not solidify when chilled. Refined safflower oil has a smoke point of 450°F and is recommended for deep-frying, pan-frying, sauteing and baking.

Sesame - Made from pressed sesame seeds, sesame oil is high in polyunsaturated fat (43%) and monounsaturated fat (42%). It comes in two varieties, light and dark. Light sesame oil is made with untoasted sesame seeds and has a nutty flavor. It is especially good for stir-frying, wok cooking and preparing dressings. Dark sesame oil (Asian) is made with toasted sesame seeds and has a much stronger flavor than light sesame oil. It should only be used in small quantities for flavoring foods; it is not suitable for cooking. Refined sesame oil has a smoke point of 350°F and semirefined sesame oil has a smoke point of 450°F.

Soybean - Highly refined soybean oil is reasonably priced, very mild, versatile and it represents approximately 80% of all the cooking oils used in commercial food production in the USA. Almost any product that lists vegetable oil as an ingredient most likely contains refined soybean oil. With a smoke point of 450°F, soybean oil is a good, all-purpose oil. Use for deep-frying, pan-frying, wok cooking, stir-frying and baking.

Sunflower - Made from sunflower seeds, sunflower oil is pale yellow in color, has a bland flavor and is considered a good, all-purpose oil. It is low in saturated fat and high in polyunsaturated fat. Semirefined sunflower oil has a smoke point of 450°F and is excellent for sauteing, preparing salad dressings, deep-frying and pan-frying.

Vegetable - Vegetable oil is an inexpensive, all-purpose oil which is a blend of refined oils made from vegetables, nuts and seeds. Most vegetable oils are made from soybeans and are high in monounsaturated fat, high in polyunsaturated fat and low in saturated fat. Designed to have a mild flavor and a high smoke point, it is recommended for deep-frying, pan-frying, sauteing and baking.Note: The American Heart Association Cookbook, Fifth Edition, recommends all of the above cooking oils with the exception of peanut oil due to its high saturated fat content.
Miscellaneous Facts, Tips and Warnings...

Essential fatty acids are vital for good health. Without some fats in our diets, we cannot absorb the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K.

All cooking oils contain 100% fat.

A tablespoon of cooking oil contains 14 grams of fat.

All cooking oils contain the same number of calories - one tablespoon contains 120 calories.

For better health, choose oils/fats that are low in saturated fat.

Cooking oil used for deep-frying can usually be reused several times. Wait until the oil has cooled completely before handling then strain it into a clean sealable container for storing.

The most accurate method of testing the temperature of oil for deep-frying is a deep-fat thermometer. Make sure the bulb of your thermometer is completely immersed in the oil, but not touching the bottom of the pan. Otherwise, the reading could be affected. If a deep-fat thermometer is not available, the age-old method of dropping a square of bread into the hot oil will suffice. If the bread cube rises to the surface crackling and frying, the oil's hot enough.Rule of thumb when using this method - If the bread cube browns uniformly in:
60 seconds, the temperature is 350-365°F

40 seconds, the temperature is about 365-382°F

20 seconds, the temperature is about 382-390°F

To dispose of used cooking oil, carefully pour cooled oil into a strong sealable container, such as an old plastic jar with a lid or old coffee can. (Avoid using breakable glass jars.) If the amount of oil is small, place the filled, sealed jar in the trash. Dispose of large amounts of cooking oil by taking it to the local landfill.

Do not pour cooking oil down the kitchen drain. Even small amounts will eventually clog the plumbing.

Remember to always wait until cooking oil has cooled completely before handling.

An Introduction To Palm Trees

A palm tree symbolizes life and its continuance, as well as joy and happiness. Dante mentions that Christians travelling to the Holy Land were known as “palmeros.” palm trees have been a part of myths as well as religion. The palm tree in the primal garden, the Garden of Eden, was known to be the tree of Life. Palm trees were also where the Goddess Astarte or Tamar resided.
A festival known as “palm Sunday” is celebrated by Christians to commemorate the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem just a few days before his crucifixion. People welcomed Jesus by waving palm fronds and carpeting his path with palm leaves.
The palm family of trees has approximately 202 genera and 2,600 species. The palms are native to tropical and subtropical climates, and commonly known palms are date, coconut, and areca nut. Known to have existed around 80 million years ago, palms are among the oldest varieties of flowering plants.
The trunks of the palm have been used since ancient times to build catamarans or special boats. Dates are harvested from palms. Palms produce coir ropes, mats, and bags, and palm oil is extracted from palms, along with palm wine.
In the US, different species of palm are native to Florida, California, Hawaii, Southern Georgia, Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana, and Texas. In fact, South Carolina is popularly known as the Palmetto State after the palms that line the coast.
As with all other things, many species of palm are facing extinction and are under threat from urbanisation, natural disasters, hybridization, and a lack of knowledge amongst common folk. Destruction of natural habitats, forest clearing operations, mining, clearing of mangroves, and dumping of trash are all detrimental to the survival of palms. Like other plants, palms are also prone to destruction by nature and disease.
Ornamental palms are a luxury and can cost from fifty to several hundred dollars.
Today the palm, the “Prince among trees,” needs care and attention. Otherwise, a tree that has lasted centuries will not remain for centuries to come.

Money Grows on Oil Palm Trees

Elaeis guineensis or more commonly known are the palm tree has its roots in West Africa. The tree was growing wildly in the region and later has been developed into an agriculture crop. The palm tree was first introduced to Malaysia in early 1870s. During that time, the country was known as Malaya. It was not until the year 1917 that palm trees was planted as a commercial crop in a rural area call Tennamaran in Selangor. That project was the initial step in making Malaysia as one of the top producer of palm oil in the world.
The palm oil industry in Malaysia grew very quickly in the 1950s to 1960s. The rapid growth was the result of the Malaysian government effort to reduce the country economic dependency on rubber and tin. Another of the country major project is reduce poverty in the nation thus land settlement schemes for growing palm oil trees was introduced to small land owners. The combined effort has produced hundred of plantation sites in a short time frame. Until today, the palm oil tree plantation estate management system consists mainly of small land holders.
Presently, there are more than 3.5 million hectares of land in Malaysia which has palm oil cultivation. In the year 2004, Malaysia has produced more than 14 millions tonnes of palm oil. Malaysia currently accounts for 51 % of world palm oil production and 62% of the total global exports. As the biggest producer and exporter of palm oil and palm oil products, Malaysia has an important role to play in fulfilling the growing global need for oils and fats in general. With the current increase on the demand for palm oil, Malaysia is in the right position to take advantage of such opportunity.

The Benefits of Using Palm Oil

Palm oil is a natural raw material which can be used almost anywhere and is thus one of the most popular agricultural commodities. The versatile oil has been used from washing liquids and soap to margarine and cosmetics production. Almost every consumables product contains palm oil. In the European countries, the crude palm is also a primary substitute for rapeseed oil.

Palm Oil For Bio-diesel
In Europe, there is a high demand on crude palm oil for bio-diesel purposes. Many major producers are investing heavily in the refineries needed for the process to convert crude palm into bio-diesel. Due to the current high prices of fossil crude oil, bio-diesel is deemed as the alternative fuel source to gasoline for vehicles.
Edible Oil For Food Production
Palm oil is an important and versatile raw material for both food and non-food industries. It contributes to the economic development of the producing countries and to the diets of millions of people around the world. The oil is approximately 50% saturated fat and 50% unsaturated fat. Due to such a unique characteristic palm oil may be separated under controlled thermal conditions into two components, a solid form (palm stearin) and a liquid form (palm olein). Palm oil is often used in healthy organic foods since the only other solid organic fats are highly saturated butter and coconut oil.
Crude Palm Oil Production
Due to its natural form, palm oil is entirely Genetic Modified (GM) free and has the highest yield per hectare than any other nature oil. This is recognized as a key benefit due to environmental pressures on its expansion to eco-sensitive areas. Plantation land areas are widely located in tropical region of Asia, Africa and South America. The largest producers are Malaysia and Indonesia with a combined output of around 90 percent of the world trade. Malaysia claims that in 1995 it was the world's largest producer with 51% of world production.
In summary, palm oil and its fractions are practical and attractive choice for importers and food manufacturers especially in third 3rd world countries. This is due to its price competitiveness, year round supply, diversity and versatility for edible and non-edible applications.

The World Largest Producer of Crude Palm Oil

Palm oil is produced from a fern like plant called the oil palm tree. The oil is extracted from the outer soft, fleshy portion of the fruit, and palm kernel oil is extracted from the inner seed portion of the palm tree fruit. Palm oil is has many beneficial properties. The extract is full of olefins, a potentially valuable chemical group that can be processed into many non-food products as well. The natural oil also has the largest slice of the world vegetable oil market of 28 percent.

Palm oil is also a primary substitute for rapeseed oil in Europe, which too is experiencing high levels of demand for bio-diesel fuel production purposes. The palm tree fruit extract is the most productive energy crop the world has. One hectare of oil palm plantation has the capacity to produce nearly 6,000 litres of crude bio-diesel. In comparison, soybeans and corn generate only about 400 and 200 litres per hectare, respectively.

The palm trees can be grown on sunny tropical region. Most plantation lands are cleared through administering the slash-and burn technique. Palm trees are very versatile and are the highest yielding oilseed crop. For fresh fruit yield, for every 10 tonnes of palm oil, about 1 tonne of palm kernel oil can be obtained. The countries the produce the most crude palm oil are from Southeast Asia mainly Malaysia and Indonesia. Together, both countries account for about 80 percent of the world's production.

Malaysia is the single largest producer with more than 50 percent of the world's production, while Indonesia follows with almost 30 percent of global production. Between 1960 and 2000, global palm oil production increased 10 fold from 2 million tons in 1960 to 24 million tons in 2000. As the largest producer and exporter of palm oil and palm oil products, Malaysia has an important role to play in fulfilling the growing global need for oils and fats in general.