Scotland's rapeseed oil sector poised for growth

By Nicholas Robinson

- Last updated on GMT

Scottish rapeseed oil is poised for growth
Scottish rapeseed oil is poised for growth

Related tags Fat Fatty acid

Scotland’s rapeseed oil industry is expected to see significant growth in the coming years, following a joint campaign between processors and scientists from Queen Margaret University, near Edinburgh, to promote the oil’s health benefits.

Cold-pressed rapeseed oil has unique health benefits when compared with other food oils, according to scientists at the university, who say it has an “exceptional acid profile”​ in comparison with, say, olive oil.

“Research carried out shows that rapeseed oil contains 6% saturated fat, less than half that found in most olive oils,” ​scientists at the university claim.

Favourable

“It also contains a more favourable ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids than other vegetable oils.”

Rapeseed oil also has a higher burning point than most other vegetable oils and retains its health benefits even when used for roasting or frying, they add.

Dr Jane McKenzie, academic lead for food and drink knowledge at Queen Margaret University, says: “Scottish cold-pressed rapeseed oil can contribute a valuable source of antioxidants to our diets, which play a valuable role in maintaining good health.”

Niche market developing

Until a decade ago, rapeseed oil was mostly used in margarine. However, a niche market for cold-pressed oil has started to develop, she adds.

Sales in Scotland have grown 18% year-on-year, according to figures from Kantar Worldpanel. Almost 5% of Scottish shoppers bought rapeseed oil over the past 12 months.

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1 comment

Rapeseed fields on the train north to Edinburgh

Posted by Elizabeth Scott,

On my last trip to Scotland, in the summer, the yellow fields of rapeseed could be seen in all directions in the morning from the train windows.

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