Rapeseed oil: what it is made from and how it is used

Vegetable oils are not merely products used for cooking, cosmetics, general wellness, and even household purposes. They are also sources of valuable nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and other beneficial compounds. Each type of vegetable oil has its own unique physicochemical composition, which determines its taste, aroma, and potential benefits for the human body.

One relatively little-known but highly valuable oil is turnip rape oil. It is produced primarily in Finland and is sometimes referred to as the «northern olive», as turnip rape is widely cultivated in the country and used as a source of vegetable oil.

Benefits and uses of turnip rape oil

Turnip rape oil is a plant-based fat with a remarkably rich vitamin and mineral profile. It contains:

• Omega-3, Omega-6, and Omega-9 fatty acids – unsaturated fatty acids involved in numerous metabolic processes. Omega-3 fatty acids participate in lipid metabolism, help regulate inflammatory processes, and support the skin’s hydrolipid barrier. Omega-6 fatty acids are components of cell membranes and play an important role in maintaining the epidermis’ barrier function. They are also important for normal immune system function. Omega-9 fatty acids can help maintain healthy blood cholesterol levels and are structural components of cell membranes, contributing to their flexibility and the efficient absorption of nutrients;
• Vitamin E (tocopherol) – a fat-soluble antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. It also supports the body’s natural protective mechanisms and is important for normal reproductive function;
• Coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone) – a biologically active compound involved in the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the main energy carrier used by cells throughout the body. Coenzyme Q10 is also widely used in skincare products because of its antioxidant properties and its role in maintaining healthy-looking skin;
• Lecithin – an organic compound involved in many biological processes, including the formation of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter associated with memory, attention, and other cognitive functions;

Turnip rape oil also contains vitamins K, D, and A, as well as phytosterols, each of which has its own nutritional value and biological role.

How and where turnip rape oil is used

Turnip rape oil is used in cooking, herbal wellness practices, and home cosmetics. In Finland, it is traditionally added to salads and first courses to make meals more filling and nutritious. It can also be used as an ingredient in homemade skincare products, including facial masks, body lotions, massage oils, and creams.

Oil obtained from industrial varieties of turnip rape may contain significant amounts of erucic acid. Such technical-grade oil is therefore used primarily for industrial purposes, including soapmaking, paint and coatings production, and leather processing.

How and what turnip rape oil is made from

Turnip rape oil is made from the seeds of the turnip rape plant, a member of the large cabbage family (Brassicaceae) and a close relative of rapeseed/canola.

Cold pressing is used to obtain edible-quality crude oil, while technical-grade oil can be produced using industrial screw presses and other specialized equipment.

High-quality turnip rape seed oil can also be produced at home. This requires a suitable oil press, a pressing chamber or press mold, and the raw material: clean, properly dried turnip rape seeds.

CraftOil Oil pressing  equipment

CraftOil offers a wide range of equipment and supplies for home and commercial oil pressing. Our catalog includes oil presses designed for both household and commercial applications, complete with the equipment needed for operation, as well as nuts, grains, and seeds of various varieties.

The 20-ton channel and plate presses, 30-ton hydraulic dismountable press, paired 30/30-ton press, and 30-ton Ukrainets modular press are excellent options for anyone who wants to produce natural vegetable oils for personal use.

These compact machines do not require special conditions for operation and can process a wide range of raw materials, including seeds that are particularly challenging to press.

We provide a 1-year official warranty on all our equipment and offer assistance and support with choosing the right oil press, as well as with its operation and maintenance.