How to make palm kernel oil ( Cold press and hot press)

Palm kernel oil can be extracted from palm kernels using either the cold press method or the hot press method. Each technique has its advantages and yields different qualities of oil. Below are the steps for both methods:

Cold Press Method:

The cold press method involves mechanical extraction without the use of external heat. This helps retain more of the oil’s natural nutrients and flavors but typically yields a lower quantity of oil compared to the hot press method.

1. Harvesting and Cleaning: Harvest ripe palm fruits and separate the kernels from the fruit’s flesh. Clean the kernels to remove any impurities.

2. Drying: Spread the cleaned kernels on a clean surface and let them dry naturally under the sun. This process helps reduce the moisture content in the kernels, which is essential for efficient oil extraction.

3. Crushing: Use a mechanical palm kernel oil expeller to crush the dried kernels into a coarse powder. This step increases the surface area of the kernels, making it easier for the oil to be released during pressing.

4. Cold Pressing: Place the crushed palm kernel powder on a cold press machine. Apply pressure to the powder using a rotating screw or hydraulic press. The pressure will force the oil to seep out while leaving the solid residue behind.

5. Filtration: Collect the extracted oil and pass it through a fine mesh or cheesecloth to remove any remaining solids or impurities.

6. Storage: Store the extracted palm kernel oil in a clean, airtight container away from direct sunlight to preserve its quality.

Hot Press Method:

The hot press method involves the application of heat during the oil extraction process, resulting in higher oil yields compared to cold pressing. However, some of the natural nutrients and flavors may be lost due to the exposure to heat.

1. Harvesting and Cleaning: Same as in the cold press method, harvest ripe palm fruits and clean the kernels.

2. Drying: As in the cold press method, dry the kernels under the sun to reduce their moisture content.

3. Break the nuts from the shell

4. Heating: Put the palm kernel nut inside an air tight pot at a controlled temperature. This can be done in a steam cooker or by using direct heat.

5. Apply pressure to extract the oil. The heat helps to increase the flow of oil from the kernels.

6. Filtration: Filter the extracted oil to remove any solid residues or impurities.

7. Storage: Store the hot-pressed palm kernel oil in a clean, airtight container, away from direct sunlight.

Note: Whether using the cold press or hot press method, it’s essential to use clean equipment and maintain hygienic conditions throughout the process to ensure the quality and safety of the palm kernel oil.