Crude Sunflower oil is a non–volatile oil expressed from sunflower (Helianthus annuus) seeds. Sunflower oil is commonly used in food as a frying oil, and in cosmetic formulations as an emollient. There are several types of sunflower oils produced, such as (i) High Linoleic (Linoleic acid is an organic compound with the formula COOH(CH₂)₇CH=CHCH₂CH=CH(CH₂)₄CH₃). (ii) High Oleic (Oleic acid is a fatty acid that occurs naturally in various animal and vegetable fats and oils. It is an odorless, colorless oil, although commercial samples may be yellowish. In chemical terms, oleic acid is classified as a monounsaturated omega–9 fatty acid, abbreviated with a lipid number of 18:1 cis-9. It has the formula CH₃(CH₂)₇CH=CH(CH₂)₇COOH.) and (iii) Mid Oleic.

Sunflower oil is a food ingredient which is actively used in culinary. Thanks to oil, the product does not stick during frying and salads acquire nice taste. Moreover, some fats contain sunflower oil in their composition, for example margarine. It is also used for industrial purposes: this ingredient can be used in paints and lacquers production as well as in soap making. Among the varieties of Oleic product, crude oil made of sunflower seeds is considered to be the most healthy.

This oil contains such necessary elements for human body as:

■      Sterols

■      Tocopherols

■      Phosphatides

It has a pleasant flavor and taste. However, it is not recommended to store it for a long time, as this can lead to the buildup of bitter taste and turbidity. The oil also contains unsaturated fatty acids. It is subjected to one pressing method, filtering, which allows saving all the healthy and necessary substances. Depending on the pressing method, the product may contain essential trace nutrients that are necessary for health: Vitamin “A”, “B”, “D”, “E” and Vitamin “F” which is an important element of the healthy state of fat metabolism. In the cosmetic industry, the sunflower oil is almost never used, but it can be found in popular traditional remedies and beauty recipes.