Scientists have created an analogue of palm oil - it is much safer for people and the environment
Miscellaneous / / September 26, 2023
It is lower in calories and saturated fat.
Scottish research team from Queen Margaret University (QMU) created an alternative to palm oil called PALM-ALT. Scientists call their development the new “Holy Grail” in the food and cosmetics market.
The substitute has the same taste, similar texture and is 100% plant-based. It is no different from the original, while being 70% safer for the environment in terms of carbon dioxide emissions.
In addition, PALM-ALT contains no flavors, sugar, sweeteners, preservatives or colors. And it is produced from by-products of the flax industry, natural fibers and rapeseed oil.
We've created a product with 80% less saturated fat and 30% fewer calories, making it significantly healthier than palm oil itself.
Catriona Liddle
Researcher from QMU
In the near future, the creators of PALM-ALT want to obtain a patent for their development, and soon after that launch mass production. Scientists are already negotiating this topic with various companies.
Almost half of all food and beauty products on supermarket shelves contain palm oil. The huge demand for this ingredient has already led to significant deforestation near the equator. By data World Wildlife Fund (WWF), it is now the most produced edible oil in the world - it accounts for 40% of the total.
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