Sunflower oil is the non-volatile oil compressed from the seeds of
sunflower (Helianthus annuus). Sunflower oil is commonly used in
food as a frying oil, and in cosmetic formulations as an
emollient.
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 *2% to *6%
(average, *8%): the kernel contains ***5% 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.
Sunflower oil is fast being realized as one of the healthiest
options for cooking oils and for use in foods. Sunflower oil is
high in vitamin E and necessary healthy polyunsaturated fats. It is
also commonly used in cosmetics to produce a strong barrier on the
skin to help keep moisture in. It is also sometimes used on
premature or low birth weight infants to provide protection of the
undeveloped skin against infection.
