The Reason why Bleaching of Palm Oil is Bad
Palm oil is an edible oil gotten from the African
oil palm tree (elaeis guineensis)
which is abundant in Nigeria. This oil serves as a major ingredient in the meals
of different ethnic groups in Nigeria. For the Igbo in Southeastern Nigeria,
95% of their meals contain this oil. And for the Yoruba, it is very necessary,
especially in their soups.
However, some people who cannot afford groundnut oil
prefer to get the cheaper palm oil which is available everywhere one goes.
Then, these individuals bleach the oil to make it light and look more like a
groundnut oil and vegetable oil that can be used to make stew and soup. Though,
this saves money for the individuals, but it has negative long-term effects.
Bleached palm-oil converts the trans-form of the palmic acid
to trans-form to cis-form which can
cause the growth of cancerous cells in the body. There is also increased
cholesterol which causes the appearance of more fat in the body, and this can
be disastrous. The bleaching of palm oil causes air pollution. Another issue,
though trivial, is that it doesn’t taste good and look fine like the one cooked
with good vegetable and groundnut oil; vegetable oil is the best for soup or
stew.
So, why trying to save money, think twice.
Chinwe
O'Brien is a writer and a blogger. He is currently doing a
degree program in English and Literature. He blogs at http://www.bettertim.blogspot.com
He wishes to make the world a better
place for all.
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