![Palm Olein vs Palm Oil: What's the Difference?]()
Introduction
Palm olein and palm oil are both common palm oil products, and both come from the fruit of the oil palm tree. Palm oil is naturally semi-solid and can be separated into two parts after fractionation: palm stearin (solid) and palm olein (liquid). Palm olein is its liquid fraction.
In this article, I'm going to give you a detailed overview of the difference between palm oil and palm olein, covering their raw materials, processing, properties, uses, and health effects.
Raw Materials and Processing Technology
Both palm olein and palm oil come from the same raw material: the fruit of the oil palm tree, grown in tropical regions like Indonesia, Malaysia, and parts of Africa and Latin America.
Palm Oil Extraction Process
Palm oil extraction begins with the harvesting of fresh fruit bunches (FFB), which are steam sterilized to prevent oxidation and loosen the fruit. Then, the fruit is threshed, heated, cooked, and pressed to extract crude palm oil (CPO). (Read more about: palm oil extraction machine >>)
Due to the presence of carotenoids, the CPO is reddish-orange and requires clarification to remove water and solids. The CPO refining process for commercial use includes:
- Degumming: Phosphoric acid (0.05-0.1%) is used to remove phospholipids.
- Deacidification: Neutralize free fatty acids (FFA) with caustic soda or steam. (Related Post: palm oil clarification process >>)
- Bleaching: Removal of pigments with activated white clay (1-2%).
- Deodorization: Removal of odors by steam at 240-260°C under vacuum.
The result is refined, bleached, and deodorized (RBD) palm oil, a semi-solid oil ready for market or further processing. (Related Post: crude palm oil refining process >>)
Palm Olein Production Process
Palm olein is made by fractionating RBD palm oil. Fractionation cools the oil to 20-25°C, causing higher-melting-point components (palm stearin) to crystallize. These solids are separated from the liquid fraction (palm olein) via centrifugation or filtration.
The difference between RBD palm oil and palm olein lies in this extra step: RBD palm oil is the whole oil, while palm olein is its liquid part, clear and golden. Stays liquid even in colder climates.
![Difference between RBD palm oil and palm olein]()
Physical and Chemical Properties
The main difference between palm olein and palm oil lies in their physical and chemical properties, which determine their functions.
| Property |
Palm Oil |
Palm Olein |
| Color |
Reddish (crude) to pale yellow |
Golden, clear |
| State at 20°C |
Semi-solid |
Liquid |
| Melting Point |
34-36°C |
20-24°C |
| Smoke Point |
~235°C |
~230°C |
| Saturated Fat |
49-51% |
40-42% |
| Oleic Acid |
37-41% |
42-45% |
| Antioxidants |
Vitamin E, carotenoids (crude) |
Vitamin E, fewer carotenoids |
Palm Olein vs Palm Oil: Main Uses
The difference between palm olein and palm oil shines through in their applications, driven by their physical states.
Palm Olein Applications
Food Industry:
- Cooking Oils: Popular for frying, sautéing, and salad dressings due to its liquid state and neutral taste.
- Mayonnaise/Dressings: Clear, fluid nature suits emulsions.
- Snack Foods: Used in chips and fried products for heat stability.
Non-Food Industry:
- Cosmetics (mascara, lotions), soaps, and detergents for its emulsifying properties.
Palm Oil Applications
Food Industry:
- Baking: Adds structure to cakes, cookies, and pastries.
- Frying: High smoke point makes it ideal for deep frying.
- Margarine/Shortening: Provides creaminess for spreads and baking fats.
- Processed Foods: Used in snacks, chocolates, and bread for stability.
Non-Food Industry:
- Cosmetics (soaps, lotions), detergents, and biofuels due to its semi-solid texture.
![Difference between palm oil and palm olein]()
Palm Olein vs Palm Oil Health Effects
Both palm olein and palm oil are high in saturated fats, linked to increased LDL cholesterol and heart disease risk if overconsumed, but their differences matter.
Saturated Fat Content
- Palm Olein: ~40-42% saturated fats, with more oleic acid (monounsaturated), potentially less impactful on cholesterol.
- Palm Oil: ~50% saturated fats (mostly palmitic acid), which can raise LDL cholesterol if eaten in excess.
Nutritional Benefits
Both oils contain vitamin E (tocotrienols), which may reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. Crude palm oil is rich in carotenoids (beta-carotene), supporting eye health and immunity.
But refining reduces these in RBD palm oil and palm olein. Palm olein retains some antioxidants, offering slight nutritional benefits.
Research Insights
A 2019 meta-analysis found palm olein did not significantly raise LDL cholesterol compared to other oils like canola or olive, suggesting it may be a neutral choice in moderation.
Some studies indicate palm olein may improve HDL cholesterol levels compared to palm oil, but results are mixed, and individual responses vary.
Both oils should be part of a balanced diet, paired with fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to minimize heart disease risk.
![Palm oil and palm olein difference health benefits]()
Conclusion
The difference between palm olein and palm oil lies in their processing, properties, and uses. Last but not least, palm olein is sold at a higher price than palm oil. If you want to start a palm oil business, it is better to buy both palm oil refinery and fractionation plant.
Huatai Intelligent Equipment Group can provide you with a 1-120 TPH large palm oil refinery and palm oil fractionation plant. Our engineers can provide you with design program and assist you in installation and commissioning. Contact us now!
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