oilseed

An oilseed is a seed or crop primarily cultivated for its oil content. These seeds, which can come from various plants including trees, herbaceous plants, and even fungi, are a significant source of vegetable oils. The oil is a reserve of high-energy food for the germinating seed and is often found in large quantities alongside protein.12

Oil extraction from these seeds can be achieved through mechanical pressing or by using volatile solvents. The residual material left after oil extraction, known as meal or cake, is a valuable by-product. This meal is frequently used as a protein concentrate for livestock feed.32

Economically, seeds are crucial as sources for cooking oils, margarine, paints, and various industrial products. Some oils, like cottonseed oil and corn oil, are by-products of other industries.24