ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews primarily aspects of Palm Oil (PO) production, processing, and current applications of PO in different industries. The importance of PO is based on its wide potential applications in the food, feed, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, chemical, and biofuel industries. Fresh fruit bunches (FFBs) are harvested using chisels or hooked knives attached to long poles. The production of FFB involves harvesting, collection, and preparation of oil palm fresh fruit bunches for primary markets. In spite the African origin of the oil palm tree, Malaysia and Indonesia are currently the main producers of PO with a share of about 85% of the global market. This is based on the more suitable climate in south east Asia and extensive seed selection programs, which give higher yield and quality oil compared to other parts of the world. The residue from the press consists of a mixture of fibers and palm nuts which are then sorted.
