The Hidden Treasure of the American Oil Palm

The American oil palm (Elaeis oleifera), native to Central and South America, is closely related to the African oil palm (Elaeis guineensis). It is primarily grown for its oil (Batana oil) in the Americas. Unlike its African cousin, American palm oil (Batana oil) is known for its high content of oleic acid, iodine, carotene, vitamin E, and unsaturated fatty acids which are considered healthier than the saturated fats found in other palm oils. Batana oil is used in cooking and as an ingredient in various food products and cosmetics, as well as for health and industrial purposes.