Palm Fruit Oil is extracted from the fleshy part of the oil palm fruit. It is reddish orange in color due to its high beta-carotene and lycopene content and contains a fair balance of saturated and unsaturated fats. Since it is high in unsaturated fats, it feels lighter on the skin than coconut oil for instance (which has a greater ratio of saturated to unsaturated fats) and performs well as a non-greasy emollient in lotions and moisturizers. Palm fruit oil has a semi-liquid, creamy texture at room temperature and is also often used in baked goods, though it has an incredibly high smoke point which makes it ideal for frying.
Palm Kernel Oil is extracted from the kernels of the oil palm fruit. It is a white to off-white colored oil that is higher in saturated fats as compared to palm fruit oil but has a similar melting point and consistency. Its high saturated fat content makes it great for cosmetic use, as saturated fats (such as lauric and palmitic acid) extend shelf life. It is an extremely popular ingredient in soaps and shampoos due to its texture enhancing properties and ability to produce a stable lather. It is likewise good for frying and has the added benefit of a neutral taste and smell. Palm Kernel Oil – RBD which is refined, bleached, and deodorized is even more neutral with respect to color, smell and taste. In contrast to non-RBD varieties, it is fully liquid at room temperature.
Palm Oil Stearin is the solid portion that results after the fractionation (heating, cooling, crystallization, separation and reheating) of palm fruit oil. The reason it is solid is due to its crystal structure and high saturated fat content—particularly of long-chain saturated fatty acids like palmitic acid and stearic acid. Along with its many benefits to the skin, it adds structural integrity to lipsticks, deodorants and bar-soaps. It has a lower smoke point than palm fruit and palm kernel oils, so while it would not be the first choice for frying it is still suitable for high temperature cooking. It is a key ingredient in vegan alternatives to traditional butter.
