Red Palm FAQ's:



Are rainforests and orangutan habitats destroyed to grow palm fruits for your Organic Red Palm Oil?

No, Rainforests and orangutan habitats are not destroyed in the growing of Nutiva’s Organic Red Palm Oil. The region of Ecuador where the oil is grown has numerous small family farms, averaging 10 hectares (about 25 acres), interspersed throughout the regional forests. These subsistence farms were planted many years ago and are now being worked by second and third generation farming families. As an organic farm, they have a very healthy environment for animal and plant life that blends with the surrounding forest.

While Red Palm Oil grown in SE Asia often contributes to rainforest and orangutan habitat destruction, Nutiva’s Organic Red Palm Oil does not. In fact, orangutans don’t live in Ecuador, which is located in South America. In addition, most palm oil is non-organic, which results in farmers spraying Roundup™or other harsh herbicides at the base of each tree twice year. Organic growing practices avoid introducing such toxins into the environment.

In addition, Nutiva has partnered with Natural Habitats in Ecuador to ensure that no deforestation or habitat destruction results from the growing or harvesting process. Nutiva is also promoting social programs in the area by building a small health clinic for the local doctor, and hiring a full-time soccer coach and providing uniforms for the local youth.

What is the difference between Palm Oil and Coconut Oil? Are they both from the Coconut Tree?
Both Palm and Coconut come from the palm tree family, but they are different species. While both are considered tropical oils, the fat and nutritional profile of each differs; palm fruit oil (not to be confused with palm kernel oil), is approximately 45% saturated fat with a high percentage of monounsaturated fat and coconut oil is approximately 90% saturated fat.

Why is Red Palm Oil good for me?
Red palm oil contains the highest amounts of vitamins A and E of any plant- based oil. Its dark red color comes from carotenes, such as alpha-carotene and beta-carotene (vitamin A) nutrients that provide color to fruits and vegetables such as carrots and tomatoes. Red palm also contains at least ten other carotenes, including the antioxidants, tocopherols and tocotrienols (vitamin E).

What is the difference between Palm Oil and Palm Kernel Oil?
While both oils come from the Palm tree, they have very different properties and should not be confused with each other. Palm Oil, like Nutiva’s Organic Red Palm Oil, comes from the red, fleshy fruit of the palm tree and contains high levels of Vitamins A and E.
Palm Kernel Oil comes from the kernel of the palm tree and does not contain these healthy antioxidants.

What can I use Red Palm Oil for?
Red Palm oil makes an excellent cooking oil for baking, sautéing, dips and medium heat frying. In particular it’s delicious tossed with popcorn or in stews and sauces. All tropical oils, including red palm, are excellent cooking oils. The fatty acids in palm oil are very stable and are excellent for medium heat cooking temperatures. Tropical oils have also been traditionally used for body care, from massage to soaps and cosmetics. Check out some terrific Organic Red Palm Oil Recipes HERE.

What is the smoke point of Red Palm Oil?
302° F

How do you store Red Palm Oil?
It is best stored in a cool, low light location. Refrigeration is not necessary, but will extend the shelf life.

Does Red Palm Oil contain any gluten?
No, red palm oil does not contain gluten.

Will Red Palm Oil stain my skin?
If applied directly to the skin, it will add a reddish orange color, but will wash off with soap and water.