December, 2016

RESEARCH ON SUNFLOWER OIL COMPARISON OF THE NUTRIENTS, COMPOSITION, AND BENEFITS OF SUNFLOWER OIL WITH VARIOUS OTHER OILS

AZAS SHAHRIER PERSONAL RESEARCH

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CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..2

1. INTRODUCTION……………………………..………………………………………………………………………………….4

2. MARKET DEMAND OF SUNFLOWER OIL…………………………....................................................5

3. COMPOSITION…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..5

4. PHYSICAL PROPERTIES……………………………………………………………………………………………………….7

5. NUTRITION…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………7

5.1.1. TRANS FAT FREE……………………………………………………………………………………………….8

5.1.2. WHY TRANS FAT IS NOT GOOD FOR HEALTH?....................................................8

5.1.3. THEN WHY TO USE SUNFLOWER OIL?................................................................8

6. COMPARISON OF NUTRITION WITH OTHER OIL…………………………………………………………………8

7. HEALTH BENEFITS OF SUNFLOWER OIL……………………………………………………………………………10

7.1.1. BENEFITS OF SUNFLOWER OIL IN COMPARISON TO OTHER

OILS……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………10

7.1.2. SEVERAL OTHER HEALTH BENEFITS OF USING SUNFLOWER OIL INSTEAD OF

OTHER OILS………………………………………………………………………………………………………..12

8. WHAT IS FATTY ACID?........................................................................ ..............................16

8.1.1. BENEFITS OF FATTY ACIDS………………………………………………………………………………17

8.1.2. ESTERIFIED, FREE, UNSATURATED, CONJUGATED FATTY ACIDS

(FFA)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..17

8.1.3. BENEFITS OF FFA (FREE FATTY ACID) / NON ESTERIFIED FATTY ACIDS

(NEFA)………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..17

8.1.4. SUNFLOWER OIL FATTY ACID PROFILES………………………………………………………….18

9. INFORMATION ON OTHER VEGETABLE OILS IN COMPARISON TO SUNFLOWER OIL…………19

10. FOREIGN TRADE AND POTENTIAL IMPORTING MARKETS…………………………………………………21

11. COMPARISON OF COOKING OIL IN TERMS OF CHOLESTEROL/BAD FAT (%)…………..…………23

12. COMPARISON OF COOKING OILS IN TERMS OF REDUCING PANCREATITIS (%)…………………24

13. CONCLUSION……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………25

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This report provides an analysis and evaluation of the health benefits of Sunflower

oil including the amount of FFA (Monounsaturated, Polyunsaturated fats etc.) in

Sunflower oil, amount of Omega-6 in terms of reducing pancreatic disease, and

Cholesterol comparison between Sunflower oil & other types of vegetable oils.

The report draw attention to the fact that, Sunflower seeds are rich in Vitamin E,

copper, B Vitamins like thiamine, phosphorus, selenium, and more. Sunflower seeds

also provides essential fatty acids important to human body. Finding a healthy

balance of good cholesterol (omega-3s) and bad cholesterol is very important.

Therefore, Sunflower oil contains little or no amount of any saturated fats, which

means that it can actually reduce overall cholesterol content in the body. Sunflower

oil offers a trans-fat free oil solution for customers with FFA including;

Saturated fat – 11.9/100g

Monounsaturated fat – 20.2/100g

Polyunsaturated fat – 63/100g

Vitamin E – 49mg/100g

The research indicates Sunflower oil is good for the following;

Heart Health, Skin Health, Energy Booster, Cancer Prevention, Anti-Inflammatory

Capacity, Immune System Health, Cardiovascular Benefits, Arthritis, Asthma & Colon

Cancer, Cholesterol, Fighting Free Radicals, Repairs the Body, Prevention of Infant

Infections, Healthy Nervous System, Added Magnesium, Moisturizer for Infants,

Vitamin E for Wrinkles, Reducing Acne/Spots, Source of Beta-Carotene, Reducing

Premature Signs of Aging, Skin Cleansing, Skin Products, Hair-gloss etc.

The report also shows the amount of Cholesterol Level in Sunflower oil;

Cholesterol research indicates that diets high in omega-3 fats and monounsaturated

also known as good fats can help lower cholesterol. This monounsaturated fat exists

in Sunflower oil from 46g – 84g per 100g.

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To reduce pancreatic disease, Sunflower oil consists of the Omega-6 (w-6) ingredient

which is can help prevent pancreatitis. The amount of w-6 in Sunflower oil is 56%

which is higher than most other vegetable oils.

The total world trade in sunflower oil were US$2 billion in 2009. The annual growth

in the value of the world’s sunflower oil exports were 22% annually since 2006. As

the annual growth in the quantity exported is - 8% over the last 4 years, the growth

in value (22%) is much higher than the growth in quantity. This mean that less

sunflower seed oil is traded, but the value of exports are higher.

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1. INTRODUCTION

Sunflower oil is the expressed oil of sunflower seed kernels. Clear, with a light yellow to gold color

and a mild taste, sunflower oil makes a good all-purpose vegetable oil for cooking and can be an

ingredient in salad dressings, sauces, sandwich spreads and granola bars. Sunflower oil is low in

saturated fats and contains heart healthy linoleic acid.

Sunflower oil is 100 percent fat, with nearly 10 percent of that being saturated fat. The oil contains

no carbohydrate, protein or water. There are 248 calories in 1 oz. of sunflower oil, which provides

43 percent of the daily recommended intake of fats for the average adult. Sunflower does not

contain appreciable amount of cholesterol in this oil.

Sunflower oil contains approximately 58 percent of the daily recommended intake of vitamin E, in

the form of alpha-tocopherol, for the average adult--and 2 percent for vitamin K. There are no

appreciable minerals in sunflower oil.

In a 2009 science advisory, the American Heart Association stated that current prevailing

evidence supports the use of oils that contain omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids as a means

to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. Since linoleic acid cannot be synthesized by the

human body, sunflower oil provides a good source of linoleic acid in the diet.

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2. MARKET DEMAND OF SUNFLOWER OIL

The world's largest sunflower oil producers now are Russia, Ukraine and Argentina. Sunflower oil

is a monounsaturated (MUFA)/polyunsaturated (PUFA) mixture of mostly oleic acid (omega-9)-

linoleic acid (omega-6) group of oils. The oil content of the seed ranges from 22% to 36%

(average, 28%): the kernel contains 45–55% oil. The expressed oil is of light amber color with a

mild and pleasant flavor; refined oil is pale yellow. Refining losses are low and the oil has good

keeping qualities with light tendency for flavor reversion. The oil contains appreciable quantities

of vitamin E, sterols, squalene, and other aliphatic hydrocarbons.

In recent years, there has been an increase in demand for sunflower crops such as sunflower oil.

Measures such as the development of hybrid sunflowers to increase oil production have been

introduced to meet this demand.

3. COMPOSITION

Sunflower oil is mainly a triglyceride; a typical constituent is shown. The British Pharmacopoeia

lists the following profile:

Palmitic acid (saturated): 5%

Stearic acid (saturated): 6%

Oleic acid (monounsaturated omega-9): 30%

Linoleic acid (polyunsaturated omega-6): 59%

Several types of sunflower oils are produced, such as high linoleic, high oleic and mid oleic. Mid-

oleic sunflower oil typically has at least 69% oleic acid. High oleic sunflower oil has at least 82%

oleic acid. Variation in unsaturated fatty acids profile is strongly influenced by both genetics and

climate. In the last decade, high stearic sunflower lines have been developed in Spain to avoid

the use of partially hydrogenated vegetable oils in the food industry.

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Sunflower oil is high in the essential vitamin E and low in saturated fat. The two most common

types of sunflower oil are linoleic and high oleic. Linoleic sunflower oil is a common cooking oil

that has high levels of polyunsaturated fat. It is also known for having a clean taste and low levels

of trans-fat. High oleic sunflower oils are classified as having monounsaturated levels of 80% and

above. Newer versions of sunflower oil have been developed as a hybrid containing linoleic acid.

They have monounsaturated levels lower than other oleic sunflower oils. The hybrid oil also has

lower saturated fat levels than linoleic sunflower oil.

The phosphatides (0.1–0.2%) present in the oil are lecithin (38.5%) and cephalin (61.5%); they

occur in combination with protein and carbohydrates.

Sunflower oil also contains lecithin, tocopherols, carotenoids and waxes. Sunflower oil's

properties are typical of a vegetable triglyceride oil.

5%6%

30%

59%

Percentage of Composition

Palmitic acid (saturated) Stearic acid (saturated)

Oleic acid (monounsaturated omega-9) Linoleic acid (polyunsaturated omega-6)

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4. PHYSICAL PROPERTIES

Sunflower oil is liquid at room temperature. The refined oil is clear and slightly amber-colored with

a slightly fatty odor.

Smoke point (refined) 232 °C 450 °F

Smoke point (unrefined) 107 °C 225 °F

Density (25 °C) 918.8 kg/m

Refractive index (25 °C) ≈1.4735

Saponification value 188-194

Iodine value 120-145

Unsaponifiable matter 1.5-2.0%

Viscosity (25 °C), unrefined 0.04914

kg/(m*s)

5. NUTRITION

Several varieties of sunflower oil seeds have been developed by standard plant

breeding methods, mainly to vary the amount of oleic acid and linoleic acid which, respectively,

are the predominant monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats in sunflower oil.

Sunflower seeds make are rich in Vitamin E, copper, B Vitamins like thiamine, phosphorus,

selenium, and more. Sunflower seeds, like nearly all types of nuts and seeds, provide a healthy

source of essential fatty acids; their specific fatty acids are in the form of linoleic acid.

Finding a healthy balance of good cholesterol (omega-3s) and bad cholesterol is very important.

Furthermore, sunflower oil contains little or no amount of any saturated fats, which means that it

can actually reduce overall cholesterol content in the body.

High oleic sunflower oil is very high in oleic (monounsaturated) acid. High oleic sunflower oil is

usually defined as having a minimum 80 percent oleic acid. The oil has a very neutral taste and

provides excellent stability without hydrogenation. High oleic sunflower oil offers a trans-free oil

solution for customers.

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5.1.1. TRANS FAT FREE

These oils are found in mostly liquid oils. There are limited solid oils that are naturally trans-fat

free (TFF) as most oils require hydrogenation (or PHO) to be added in order to turn the oil from a

liquid state to a solid state. In the food manufacturing industry specifically baking and deep frying

applications, trans-fat free or (TFF) oil is very important.

5.1.2. WHY TRANS FAT IS NOT GOOD FOR HEALTH?

Hydrogenation/trans fat is a chemical process first developed in the 1950s, when food

manufacturers discovered that by adding hydrogen to liquid vegetable oils, they could create a

product that would remain solid at room temperature. Sunflower oil was just one of many oils to

undergo hydrogenation as manufacturers produced margarine and vegetable-based shortening.

The problem with hydrogenation is that it produces trans-fats. These fats lower good HDL

cholesterol levels while increasing bad LDL cholesterol levels.

5.1.3. THEN WHY TO USE SUNFLOWER OIL?

In response to a growing public concern about hydrogenated / trans-fat oils, some food companies

are switching to supposedly more healthful sunflower oil due to offering trans-fat free solution.

6. COMPARISON OF NUTRITION WITH OTHER OIL

Due to so many vegetable oils to choose from market, the following breakdown is given to identify

the calories, total fat, and saturated fat in sunflower oil in comparison to other vegetable oils. The

oils are fairly similar calorie-wise. But taking a look at the saturated fat content. We would be able

to understand that this saturated fat a person would want to limit from their diet chart.

The following chart is enclosed herewith to understand the nutritional value for one tablespoon of

oil;

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OIL CALORIES TOTAL FAT(G)

saturated fat (g)/tbsp

Sunflower oil 120 13.6 1.8

Almond oil 119 14 1

Avocado oil 124 14 1.6

Canola oil 120 14 1

Coconut oil 117 13.6 11.8

Corn oil 120 14 2

Cottonseed oil 119 14 3

Extra-virgin olive oil 120 14 2

Flaxseed oil 120 13.6 1.3

Grapeseed oil 120 13.6 1.3

Hemp seed oil 126 14 1.5

Macadamia nut oil 120 14 2

Olive oil 119 13.5 1.9

Palm oil 120 13.6 6.7

Palm kernel oil 116 14 11

Peanut oil 119 13.5 2.3

Safflower oil 120 13.6 0.8

Sesame oil 120 13.6 1.9

Soybean oil 120 13.6 2

Vegetable oil 124 14 0.9

Walnut oil 120 14 1.5

Wheatgerm oil 120 13.6 2.6

Butter 102 11.5 7.3

Smart Balance

Margarine

80 9 2.5

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7. HEALTH BENEFITS OF SUNFLOWER OIL

Some of the health benefits of sunflower oil include its ability to improve heart health, boost

energy, strengthen the immune system, improve skin health, prevent cancer, lower cholesterol,

protect against asthma, and reduce inflammation.

Although most people are already familiar with sunflowers, those vibrant beautiful flowers that can

be found all over the world, many people don’t immediately think of sunflowers as sources of an

extremely healthy vegetable oil that can replace some of the less healthy cooking oils on the

market. Sunflower oil is also used in certain cosmetic applications. Sunflower oil is a non-volatile

oil that can be extracted from sunflowers relatively easily. The main producers of sunflower oil are

Russia, Ukraine, and Argentina, but it is used throughout the world in various cuisines.

One of the primary reasons for the growing popularity of sunflower oil is its impressive fatty acid

content, which includes palmitic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, and linoleic acid. The combination

of fatty acids in the body are extremely important to maintain various elements of human health,

and sunflower oil can help maintain that balance.

Furthermore, some of those fatty acids, as well as vitamin E and other organic compounds, act

as antioxidants in sunflower oil, meaning that they can positively affect a huge range of conditions

that people regularly suffer from. It also has more polyunsaturated fats than any other commonly

used vegetable oil, and with the recent craze of eating healthy and searching for alternative

options, sunflower oil is becoming quite desirable on the international market.

7.1.1. BENEFITS OF SUNFLOWER OIL IN COMPARISON TO OTHER OILS

Heart Health

The balance ssof fatty acids found in sunflower oil, including a good amount of linoleic acid (an

omega-6 fatty acid) is very good. Although omega-6 fatty acids are typically considered “bad”

cholesterol, they are still essential in the body. The problem is, most people have too many!

Finding a healthy balance of good cholesterol (omega-3s) and bad cholesterol is very important.

Furthermore, sunflower oil contains little or no amount of saturated fats, which means that it can

actually reduce overall cholesterol content in the body. This means that any person is far less

likely to develop atherosclerosis, which clogs arteries, raises blood pressure, and it increases

chances of suffering a heart attack or a stroke. Sunflower oil, in moderation, is a good choice for

those who want to keep an eye on their heart health.

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Skin Health

Sunflower oil is rich in vitamin E, which acts as an antioxidant in the body. It has been directly

connected to preventing heart disease and boosting immune system. Furthermore, vitamin E is

specifically related to improving skin health and regenerating cells. Which means the skin is better

protected against damage from the sun, as well as the natural degradation of age that occurs

when free radicals are present in the body. Antioxidants like vitamin E neutralize free radicals,

keeping them from destroying or damaging healthy cells. An increased reduction in scars, quicker

wound healing, and a healthier natural glow to skin are the advantages of it. This is why sunflower

oil is commonly used in cosmetic applications.

Energy Booster

The fatty acid content in sunflower oil is also connected to energy levels in the body. Saturated

fats can make a person feel inactive, while unsaturated fats, of which sunflower oil has many, can

keep him/her feeling energized and ready to face the day.

Cancer Prevention

As mentioned above, sunflower oil is rich in antioxidants and substances that act as antioxidants.

Vitamin E, which has varieties known as tocopherols, are powerful antioxidants that can eliminate

free radicals before they can mutate healthy cells into cancerous cells. Specifically, sunflower oil

has been linked to preventing colon cancer, but there are a number of research studies ongoing

to verify its effects on a wider variety of cancers.

Anti-Inflammatory Capacity

Asthma affects millions of people around the world, and this respiratory condition can range from

mild to life-threatening. Sunflower oil has been positively correlated with a lower amount and

severity of asthma attacks because of its anti-inflammatory qualities, which are derived from its

vitamin content, as well as the beneficial fatty acids sunflower oil contains. Along with asthma,

sunflower oil has also been linked to a reduction in severity of arthritis, which is an inflammatory

disease.

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Immune System Health

Antioxidants in the body, also have a significant effect on the general immune system and the

ability of the body to resist attacks by infection. Sunflower oil protects the skin by strengthening

the membrane barriers, thereby making it harder for bacteria and viruses to enter the body. For

infants, sunflower oil is highly recommended because it can protect the babies from infections,

particularly when they are born premature and are highly susceptible to infections. This same

benefit is extended to adults who use the oil as well, although the effects are not quite as dramatic

or obvious.

7.1.2. SEVERAL OTHER HEALTH BENEFITS OF USING SUNFLOWER OIL INSTEAD OF OTHER

OILS

Sunflower oil has a large number of benefits that help in keeping the body healthy and strong.

Though it is included in the list of high fat items, it is gaining popularity as a cooking oil due to its

wide variety of health-enhancing nutrients. The perfect balance of monounsaturated and

polyunsaturated fats makes it perfect for reducing the levels of bad cholesterol. Thus, more and

more people are incorporating it in their diet. Various health benefits are stated below;

1. Cardiovascular Benefits

Sunflower oil is rich in Vitamin E and low in saturated fat. Besides, it is rich in certain

phytochemicals like choline and phenolic acid that are beneficial for heart. It also contains

monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats along with vitamins that makes it one of the healthiest

oils for consumption. High oleic sunflower oils contain 80% or more monounsaturated fats. Thus,

sunflower oil helps in lowering cardiovascular diseases and chance of heart attack.

2. Prevents Arthritis

Sunflower oil is the ultimate solution for those having worries about developing arthritis. Sunflower

oil helps in the prevention of rheumatoid arthritis.

3. Prevention of Asthma & Colon Cancer

Sunflower oil contains more Vitamin E than any other cooking oil. Thus, incorporating this oil in

diet provides protection against asthma and colon cancer.

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4. Prevention of Other Cancers

The carotenoids found in sunflower oil help in the prevention of uterine, lung and skin cancers. In

addition, they provide a good source of Vitamin A and aid in preventing cataracts.

5. Lowers Cholesterol

The saturated fats found in other oils are difficult to break down completely during metabolism.

Consequently, they are carried to different parts of the body by the blood and get deposited, thus

increasing the LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) levels. This causes health problems like

embolism, atherosclerosis, joint pains and birth defects.

Sunflower oil is rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats which provide energy besides

maintaining an ideal LDL/HDL (good cholesterol) ratio in the body. Sunflower oil also contains

lecithin which helps in lowering cholesterol level. This is because it sticks to the nerve and cell

linings, thus preventing fat and cholesterol from sticking to the cell.

6. Fights Free Radicals

Sunflower oil acts as an antioxidant as it is rich in Vitamin E or tocopherols that help in neutralizing

the cancer-causing free radicals. The free radicals damage the cells and the immune system.

7. Repairs the Body

Sunflower oil also contains proteins, which are vital for building and repairing tissues and the

production of hormones and enzymes. Our body requires high amounts of proteins. Since the

body does not store proteins, they have to be consumed, and sunflower oil fulfils this requirement.

8. Prevention of Infant Infection

Sunflower oil is useful in reducing the risk of infection in pre-term infants having low birth weight.

The infants are more likely to suffer from infections because of underdeveloped immune system

and organs such as the skin. Sunflower oil acts as a protective barrier and prevents such infection.

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9. Healthy Nervous System

The Vitamin B content of sunflower oil promotes a healthy nervous system, proper digestion and

is a great source of energy.

10. Reduction of Cardiac Problems

Sunflower oil contains selenium that is beneficial in reducing the risk of cardiac problems and

hepatic degradation. A high level of selenium in the blood is also instrumental in reducing the risk

of lung and skin cancers.

11. Added Magnesium

Folate or folic acid found in sunflower oil helps in the manufacture of new cells. Magnesium

prevents muscle cramps whereas tryptophan relaxes the brain and promotes sleep by aiding in

the production of the neurotransmitter, serotonin.

12. Use as Moisturizer for Infants

Due to its emollient properties, sunflower oil helps the skin retain its moisture. Using sunflower oil

as a lotion on the skin of pre-term infants acts as a protective barrier and massaging them with

this oil helps in reducing skin infection by nearly 14 percent. Hence, sunflower oil can be used in

their daily skincare.

13. Vitamin E for Wrinkles

Sunflower oil is extremely high in Vitamin E in comparison to other skincare products like almond

oil or shea butter. Vitamin E is essential for preventing damage to the skin cells by the ultraviolet

light or UVA from the sun. Vitamin E improves the appearance and health of skin by preventing

scarring and smoothing of existing wrinkles.

14. Reducing Acne/Spots

Sunflower oil is also rich in vitamins A, C and D and healthy carotenoids and waxes which form a

protective barrier on the skin. Thus, this oil is effective in the treatment of acne. Being

exceptionally light and non-greasy, it gets absorbed into the skin easily, without clogging or

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blocking the pores. Its range of vitamins and fatty acids act as antioxidants to regenerate the skin

cells and help the skin get rid of acne causing bacteria.

15. Source of Beta-Carotene

Beta-carotene is a richly pigmented, fat-soluble compound that can be converted into Vitamin A

and its antioxidant properties are beneficial for the appearance of health and skin. Sunflower oil

is an excellent source of beta-carotene. Consumption of this compound makes skin less sensitive

to the sun. The antioxidants in it neutralize the free radicals that penetrate skin, causing sunburn

and other types of sun damage such as skin cancer.

16. Reducing Premature Signs of Aging

The antioxidant properties of sunflower oil help in preventing premature signs of aging. The

exposure to free radicals and sunlight increases the rate of aging of skin, causing the occurrence

of wrinkles and fine lines at an early age. The antioxidants in sunflower oil lower the risk of

developing premature signs of aging.

17. Skin Cleansing

Being naturally emollient, sunflower oil improves skin’s moisture retention capacity and is

beneficial for individuals with dry, dehydrated or sensitive skin. A mixture of sunflower and castor

oil is effective in making skin supple and removing dead cells and impurities. This mixture can be

used as a cleanser and there is no need to use a moisturizer as the oils contain fatty acids and

vitamins to moisturize skin.

18. Skin Products

Sunflower seed oil is an oil of a fine quality as it is light in texture and extremely suitable for eye

and skin care. It is suitable for normal to dry skin and is increasingly used in aromatherapy

because of its mild scent and light texture. It is used in skin products and creates a soft feel on

the skin.

19. Hair-gloss

Due to its light texture and mild flavor, sunflower oil softens the hair and adds a delightful sheen

to it. Sunflower seed oil helps to control frizz, tackles dryness and damage and makes hair

manageable. This versatile oil maintains hair’s luster and texture and can be used as a natural

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conditioner. Sunflower oil can be applied and massaged on scalp before a bath once a week for

maximum benefits. Being extremely light, sunflower oil helps in conditioning greasy hair. It

nourishes the hair and prevents breakage. Sunflower oil is an important source of gamma alpha

linolenic acid (GLA) which helps in preventing thinning of hair. It is effective in the treatment of

hair-loss, baldness and alopecia areata, characterized by round patches of lost hair.

20. Source of Energy & Vitamins

Sunflower seed oil is considered as one of the healthiest oils due to its variety of health-enhancing

nutrients. This oil is rich in vitamins E, B1, B5, B6 and C in addition to minerals like copper,

phosphorus, zinc and magnesium. Folate, potassium, calcium, riboflavin, iron and niacin found in

sunflower seed oil make it an extremely healthy choice with several health benefits.

Particulars Value /100G (3.5 OZ)

Energy

Carbohydrates

3,699 kJ (884 kcal)

0 g

Vitamin E 41.08 mg (274%)

Vitamin K 5.4 μg (5%)

8. WHAT IS FATTY ACID?

Fat is an important ingredient of human diet. The functional role of fat in the diet is manifold. Fat

is a most concentrated source of energy. Fats are essential in the diet for the absorption and

mobilization of fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin E and fat-soluble antioxidants.

These vitamins are not utilized by the body if fat is not available in the diet. Thus, fat works as a

vehicle to carry the fat-soluble vitamins, nutrients and antioxidants in the body.

Vegetable oils are the main sources of essential fatty acids for the body. Essential fatty acids

(EFA) are those fatty acids, which the body cannot synthesize and need to be supplied through

diet. It also helps in raising High density lipoproteins (HDL) the so called good cholesterol. Low-

fat diets can result in reduction of HDL cholesterol. Fat in the diet imparts certain textual qualities,

taste and palatability to the food.

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EFAs are long chain unsaturated fatty acids derived from linolenic, linoleic, and oleic acids.

Omega-9 is necessary yet “non-essential” because the body can manufacture a modest amount

on its own, provided essential EFAs are present.

EFAs support the cardiovascular, reproduction, immune, and nervous systems. The human body

needs EFAs to manufacture and repair cell membranes, enabling the cells to obtain optimum

nutrition and expel harmful waste products. A primary function of EFAs is the production of

prostaglandins, which regulate body functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, blood clotting,

fertility, conception, and play a role in immune function by regulating inflammation and

encouraging the body to fight infection. An ideal intake ratio of Omega-6 to Omega-3 fatty acids

is between 5:1 - 10:1.

EFA deficiency and Omega 6/Omega 3 imbalance is linked with serious health conditions, such

as heart attacks, cancer, insulin resistance, asthma, lupus, schizophrenia, depression,

postpartum depression, accelerated aging, stroke, obesity, diabetes, arthritis, ADHD, and

Alzheimer’s disease, among others.

8.1.1. BENEFITS OF FATTY ACIDS

Fatty acids that are required by the human body but cannot be made in sufficient quantity from

other substrates, and therefore; must be obtained from food, are called essential fatty acids.

Essential fatty acids (simply "essential-fats") are a kind of poly-unsaturated fats vital for human

body, especially for the normal growth and development in infants and young children. They are

also required in adults for optimum body homeostasis (metabolism).

8.1.2. ESTERIFIED, FREE, UNSATURATED, CONJUGATED FATTY ACIDS (FFA)

When fatty acids circulating in the plasma (plasma fatty acids) are not in their glycerol ester form

(glycerides), they are known as non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs) or free fatty acids (FFAs). Free

fatty acids are those long chain acids (fatty acids) that are not conjugated or attached to anything

else. That is, they are "free" and not bound.

8.1.3. BENEFITS OF FFA (FREE FATTY ACID) / NON ESTERIFIED FATTY ACIDS (NEFA)

Individual fatty acids, free fatty acids (FFA), or the non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), circulate

primarily in association with albumin. They are an important metabolic fuel.

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Fatty acids play a central role in providing energy to tissues, particularly during fasting. The liver,

kidneys, myocardium, and skeletal muscles, but not the brain. The major storage form of fatty

acids is in triglycerides (large amounts are also esterified to cholesterol or in phospholipids), and

the enzymes lipoprotein lipase and hepatic lipase hydrolyze the triglycerides to fatty acids and

glycerol, thereby releasing them as energy sources for the various tissues. FFAs that have been

released from triglyceride by the actions of lipoprotein lipase and hepatic lipase are elevated in

blood of subjects with central obesity, insulin resistance and type II diabetes.

8.1.4. SUNFLOWER OIL FATTY ACID PROFILES

Sunflower oil found on grocery store shelves today is high in polyunsaturates or linoleic acid as

well as it has reasonable amount of monounsaturated fat, Vitamin E. an essential ingredient

excellent home cooking oil and salad oil with a light, clean taste, high smoke point and low level

of saturated fat.

The following table gives the fatty acid, vitamin E and cholesterol composition of some common

dietary fats.

Saturated Fat

Monounsaturated Fat

Polyunsaturated Fat

Cholesterol Vitamin E

g/100g g/100g g/100g mg/100g mg/100g

Sunflower oil 11.9 20.2 63 0 49

Coconut oil 85.2 6.6 1.7 0 0.66

Cocoa butter 60 32.9 3 0 1.8

Palm kernel oil 81.5 11.4 1.6 0 3.8

Palm oil 45.3 41.6 8.3 0 33.12

Cottonseed oil 25.5 21.3 48.1 0 42.77

Wheat germ oil 18.8 15.9 60.7 0 136.65

Soybean oil 14.5 23.2 56.5 0 16.29

Olive oil 14 69.7 11.2 0 5.1

Corn oil 12.7 24.7 57.8 0 17.24

Safflower oil 10.2 12.6 72.1 0 40.68

Hemp oil 10 15 75 0 12.34

Canola/Rapeseed oil 5.3 64.3 24.8 0 22.21

Lard 40.8 43.8 9.6 93 0.6

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Duck fat 33.2 49.3 12.9 100 2.7

Butter 54 19.8 2.6 230 2

9. INFORMATION ON OTHER VEGETABLE OILS IN COMPARISON TO

SUNFLOWER OIL

COCONUT OIL

This oil is full of saturated fat. Studies suggest that diets high in coconut oil do raise total blood

cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. Coconut oil also seems to raise HDL (good) cholesterol and it

has the advantage that it behaves very well at high temperatures.

Groundnut Oil

Groundnut oil or peanut oil is got a good combination of fats, and has the good monounsaturated

and polyunsaturated fats and is low in bad saturated fats. It's a good all-purpose oil for cooking

and I think it works particularly well for Asian foods that are prepared in the wok.

Mustard Oil

Has a near ideal fat composition but not very good as it contains high amounts of erucic acid

ranging from 35 to 48%. It is recommended not to use mustard oil as the sole cooking medium. It

has a high smoking point so it's only good for deep frying.

Canola Oil

Canola is flying off the shelves. Canola oil, which is made from the crushed seeds of the canola

plant, is said to be amongst the healthiest of cooking oils. It has the lowest saturated fat content

of any oil. It's seen as a healthy alternative as it’s rich in monounsaturated fats and is high in

Omega 3.

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Olive Oil

If Olive oil is used regularly, monounsaturated fats will be consumed more that helps lower the

risk of heart disease and breast cancer, and that's possibly because of its high monounsaturated

fat content, which lowers cholesterol.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

This oil is derived from the first pressing of olives and is full of antioxidants as well as polyphenyls,

which are both considered good for heart health. It has darker color and has less acidity than olive

oil. Largely used in salads, cold dishes and over pastas.

Rice Bran Oil

Apparently, rice bran oil has a chemical called oryzanol which is good for cholesterol. It is high in

monounsaturated fats and has a fair amount of polyunsaturated fats too, both the good type of

fats. Since it has a high smoking point, it works well for deep frying chips and all.

Avocado Oil

It has a mildly nutty, is very rich in monounsaturated fats and is a good way to get Vitamin E in

our diets. It glides on very well in a dressing, in mayonnaise, vinaigrette and adds tremendous

panache to a simple grilled fish. The only downside is the price as well as availability in South

Asia. It's one of those oils that can be kept as an add-on oil. Because it needs to be stored properly

otherwise it can spoil easily.

Sesame Oil

Sesame oil comes in two colors. The lighter one is used in India and the Middle East, and is

pressed from untoasted seeds. It has a mild flavor and a high smoking point. The darker variety

has a distinct nutty aroma and taste and works very well in Asian food as a marinade or in stir

fries.

Both types of oils are high in polyunsaturated fat but they should never be heated for too long.

Sesame oil also contains magnesium, copper, calcium, iron and vitamin B6.

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Grapeseed Oil

Grapeseed oil is pressed from grape seeds left over from wine making. It is believed to have very

little saturated fat, is filled with good fat, and has a very mild taste. It is considered good for cooking

and frying.

But all that changed in the 80's with the scare of cholesterol and heart disease.

Overnight ghee was termed bad for health and to avoid trans-fats and SUNFLOWER OIL

became popular and with all the nutrients it has so far with low cholesterol it has grabbed

the attention of health-conscious customers.

10. FOREIGN TRADE AND POTENTIAL IMPORTING MARKETS

Foreign Trade

The total world trade in sunflower oil were US$2 billion in 2009. The annual growth in the value

of the world’s sunflower oil exports were 22% annually since 2006. As the annual growth in the

quantity exported is - 8% over the last 4 years, the growth in value (22%) is much higher than the

growth in quantity. This mean that less sunflower seed oil is traded, but the value of exports are

higher. In total there are 190 importing countries in the world, that imports sunflower-seed oil and

100 exporting countries of sunflower-seed oil in the world.

Figure: Imported value of sunflower-seed oil in the world (2006 – 2009) / Source: Trade Map, 2011

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The following table shows the leading importers and exporters of sunflower oil. The top importers

of sunflower seed oil import 22.4% of total imports, indicating that imports are not concentrated.

The same table shows that the top exporters contribute 29.5% of total world exports, indicating

that exports are relatively concentrated.

Following table Imported value of sunflower-seed oil in the world (2009)

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11. COMPARISON OF COOKING OIL IN TERMS OF CHOLESTEROL/BAD FAT

(%)

Cholesterol research indicates that diets high in omega-3 fats and monounsaturated "good fats"

can help lower cholesterol. These beneficial fats can be found in avocado oil, canola oil,

flaxseed oil, olive oil, peanut oil, walnut oil, and sunflower oil. Below is given a health chart

collected from health/medical based archival forum to compare the cholesterol level of sunflower

oil with other brands;

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12. COMPARISON OF COOKING OILS IN TERMS OF REDUCING

PANCREATITIS (%)

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma is the fourth most frequently diagnosed cancer for both men and

women in the United States and the chance for survival for these cancers is extremely poor.

Omega-3 fatty acids have also been shown to be anti-inflammatory. Omega-6 fatty acids, which

are inflammatory, predominate in our typical Western diets. Studies show our diets contain an

omega-6/omega-3 ratio of 15/1. A lower ratio of omega-6/omega-3 intake reduces the risk and

growth of tumors. Omega-3 induces apoptosis, a natural, beneficial form of cell death for

abnormal cells. Omega-6 in the vegetable oils help reduce the pancreatic problems from human

body. The following bar chart indicates how pancreas can be reduced/controlled by using

sunflower oil;

17%

12%

2.70%

18%

1.80%

33%

53%50%

13%

55%

10%

22%

15%

23%

2.80%

9.80%9.80%9.10%

31%

41% 41%

50%

56%

22%

53%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

Omega-6 component in cooking oils to reduce pancreatic cancer

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13. CONCLUSION

Sunflower oil of any kind has been shown to have cardiovascular benefits. Diets combined with a

low fat content and high levels of oleic acid have been suggested to lower cholesterol which, in

turn, results in a smaller risk of heart disease. Bursting with antioxidants, consumption of this oil

helps in maintaining the health of the person. Sunflower oil is rich in various minerals like calcium,

manganese, phosphorous, copper and zinc. Iron and potassium. Sunflower oil also contains

palmitic acid, stearic acid as well as lecithin. The high amount of vitamin E present in the sunflower

oil helps in keeping the cells of the body moisturized. Regular consumption of sunflower oil also

reduces the likelihood of suffering from any heart diseases and reduces the chances of arthritis

and asthma. The growth would predominantly be driven by growing domestic demand for

sunflower oil.

Over the annual consumption of edible oil in India in 2013 was 18 million tons, palm oil was the

most consumed with 28 per cent share of the total consumption, followed by soya at 15 per cent,

cotton seed oil at 12 per cent and sunflower oil at 11 per cent – while the remaining consists of

groundnut oil, rice bran oil, mustard oil, gingelly and coconut oil.

Of the top four categories, palm and sunflower are the fastest growing categories. Going by his

estimates, sunflower will outperform the overall growth.