Blog Description

Top 5 Edible Oil Manufacturers Worldwide

From Kitchen to Global Markets: Top 5 Edible Oil Manufacturers

Consumer Goods and Retail | Jan, 2025

Edible oils are fats derived from plants, animals, or synthetic sources that are safe for human consumption. They are commonly used in cooking, frying, baking, and as ingredients in processed foods, contributing to flavor, texture, and energy intake. These oils can be categorized into vegetable oils, animal-derived oils, and specialty or blended oils. Vegetable oils, extracted from seeds, nuts, or fruits, include options like olive oil, which is rich in monounsaturated fats; sunflower oil, known for its high vitamin E content; canola oil, which is low in saturated fat; and soybean oil, often used in processed foods due to its omega-3 content. Other notable examples include coconut oil, high in saturated fats and popular in tropical cuisines, and palm oil, widely used in food manufacturing.

According to TechSci Research report “Edible Oils MarketGlobal Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, Segmented By Type (Palm Oil, Soybean Oil, Rapeseed Oil, Sunflower Oil, Peanut Oil, Olive Oil, Corn Oil, Flaxseed Oil, Avocado Oil, Pumpkin Seed Oil, Others), By Nature (Organic, Conventional), By End User (Domestics, Industrial, Food Service, Others), By Region, By Competition 2018-2028” Global Edible Oils Market was valued at USD 210.3 Billion in 2022 and is anticipated to project robust growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 4.8% through 2028.

Edible oils undergo various processing methods, such as refining, which purifies the oil for longer shelf life, and cold pressing, which retains more nutrients and natural flavors. Some oils, like hydrogenated varieties, are chemically processed to solidify, often leading to the formation of trans fats. From a nutritional perspective, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, found in oils like olive and flaxseed, support heart health, while saturated fats, present in coconut and palm oil, have debated health effects. Trans fats, commonly found in partially hydrogenated oils, are generally considered harmful and linked to heart disease. With a wide range of edible oils available, each with unique properties and benefits, choosing the right oil depends on health considerations, cooking needs, and dietary preferences.

The Business of Edible Oils: Global Trade and Economic Significance

The edible oil industry plays a crucial role in the global food sector, encompassing a variety of oils such as palm, soybean, sunflower, and rapeseed oil. These oils are not only key ingredients in cooking but also integral components of processed foods and biofuels. The market is dominated by a few major producers. Indonesia and Malaysia are the leading producers of palm oil, accounting for over 80% of global output, while India, China, and the European Union are the top importers. Palm oil's wide use in food, cosmetics, and biofuels makes it the most traded edible oil globally, though its production has faced criticism for contributing to deforestation.

The global edible oil trade is highly interconnected, with countries like India, China, and the EU heavily reliant on imports. Disruptions in production due to climate conditions, trade restrictions, or geopolitical tensions often lead to price volatility. Additionally, concerns over sustainability have prompted some producers to adopt certification programs like the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) to address environmental and social issues. The economic significance of edible oils extends beyond their use in food production. The industry supports millions of farmers worldwide, particularly in Southeast Asia and South America, and provides jobs in the refining, packaging, and retail sectors.

In addition, shifting consumer preferences toward healthier oils, such as olive or avocado oil, are influencing market trends. Regulatory changes, including restrictions on trans fats, are also impacting product formulations. As the industry faces challenges such as supply chain disruptions and sustainability concerns, innovations in production, alternative oil sources, and regulatory shifts will be crucial in shaping its future trajectory.

Top Edible Oil Manufacturing Companies

1.   Cargill, Incorporated:

Founding Year

1865

Headquarters

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Website

https://www.cargill.com/

 

Cargill, Incorporated is a major American multinational food corporation headquartered in Minnetonka, Minnesota, and was founded in 1865 by William Wallace Cargill. As the largest privately held company in the United States by revenue, Cargill operates across various sectors, including agriculture, food production, and financial services. The company engages in trading, purchasing, and distributing agricultural commodities such as grains and palm oil, while also producing food ingredients like vegetable oils and starches. Cargill plays a significant role in the global food supply chain, responsible for approximately 25% of U.S. grain exports and a substantial portion of the domestic meat market. With over 160,000 employees in 66 countries, Cargill emphasizes sustainability and community development while maintaining its family-owned status, with more than 90% of the company owned by the descendants of the founder. In January 2023, Brian Sikes was appointed as the company's president and CEO, marking the tenth leadership transition in its long history.

Their portfolio, in terms of edible oils, includes a variety of options, each suited for different uses:

Tropical Fat Oils:

Extracted from tropical sources, these oils play a crucial role in bakery and confectionery products, giving them that perfect texture and rich taste. Palm kernel oil, for instance, is a common ingredient in chocolates and coatings due to its smooth melting properties.

Liquid Oils:

Think refined palm, soybean, sunflower, canola, and olive oils—staples in kitchens and food manufacturing. These oils are widely used for frying, baking, and as key ingredients in processed foods.

High Oleic Oils:

Oils like high oleic canola, soybean, and sunflower, are packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. They offer greater oxidative stability, making them ideal for frying and extending the shelf life of food products without the need for artificial preservatives.

In India, Cargill markets several leading consumer brands of edible oils, including NatureFresh, Gemini, Sweekar, Leonardo Olive Oil, Rath, and the Sunflower brand of hydrogenated fats. Cargill's extensive experience in food product formulation and deep consumer insights enable them to produce high-quality edible oils that meet the demands of today's consumers.

 

2.   Wilmar International Limited:

Founding Year

1991

Headquarters

Singapore

Website

https://www.wilmar-international.com/

 

Wilmar International Limited, founded in 1991 and headquartered in Singapore, is a leading agribusiness group in Asia and one of the largest listed companies on the Singapore Exchange. The company operates an integrated agribusiness model that encompasses the entire value chain of agricultural commodities, including oil palm cultivation, edible oils refining, oilseed crushing, sugar milling, and the production of consumer products like ready-to-eat meals and specialty fats. With over 1,000 manufacturing plants and a multinational workforce of approximately 100,000 people, Wilmar has established an extensive distribution network that spans more than 50 countries. The company emphasizes sustainability in its operations and aims to create quality products while leveraging logistical advantages to enhance operational efficiencies.

Wilmar offers a comprehensive range of edible oils, catering to both consumer and industrial needs. Their portfolio includes:

Palm Oil Dominance:

Wilmar is one of the largest integrated palm oil producers. It controls the entire value chain, from owning plantations and mills to refining and distribution. Many of Wilmar’s edible oil products, including margarine, specialty fats, and shortenings, are derived from palm oil.

Specialty Fats & Industrial Oils:

Wilmar provides specialty fats for bakeries, confectionery, and dairy alternatives, catering to industries that require unique fat compositions. This differs from some competitors who focus on generic refined oils rather than specialized fat formulations.

Consumer Packaged Brands

Wilmar has a strong retail presence, selling consumer-branded edible oils under names like Fortune, Saniya, Viking, and Simply in Asia and Africa. Competitors like Cargill focus more on bulk sales and B2B customers rather than retail branding.

Wilmar is a leading member of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) and has stringent policies on deforestation-free palm oil. Other major players, like ADM and Cargill, have similar sustainability goals, but Wilmar’s vertically integrated palm oil operations give it better control over sustainability compliance.

 

3.   Marico Limited:

Founding Year

1988

Headquarters

Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Website

https://marico.com/global

 

Marico Limited is a leading Indian multinational consumer goods company, established in 1988 and headquartered in Mumbai. Specializing in health, beauty, and wellness products, Marico operates in over 25 countries across Asia and Africa, offering a diverse portfolio that includes hair care, skin care, edible oils, health foods, male grooming products, and fabric care items. The company has gained significant market presence with well-known brands such as Parachute, Saffola, Nihar Naturals, and Set Wet. In the fiscal year 2023-24, Marico recorded a turnover of INR 96.5 billion (approximately USD 1.2 billion), reflecting its extensive reach and impact on consumers, touching the lives of one out of every three Indians.

Marico's edible oils portfolio is diverse, focusing on health and wellness. The key products include:

Safola Gold

This is a refined edible oil blend made from rice bran oil and safflower oil, designed for heart health. Saffola Gold is marketed as a heart-healthy option because it is rich in MUFA and PUFA, which can help in lowering bad cholesterol (LDL) and promoting overall cardiovascular health.

Saffola Tasty

This is another refined oil blend, consisting of sunflower oil and rice bran oil. It aims to provide a good balance between taste and health. The combination of sunflower oil, rich in vitamin E, and rice bran oil provides antioxidants and nutrients that support heart health. The oil blend is marketed as having a taste that doesn’t compromise health.

Saffola Pure

This is a refined sunflower oil known for its high smoke point and versatility in cooking. Saffola Pure is suitable for various cooking methods, including frying, sautéing, and baking, due to its high heat tolerance.

Marico’s edible oils portfolio, under the Saffola brand, is designed to cater to consumers who are seeking a balance between taste and health. The focus on heart health, antioxidant properties, and cold-pressed options shows a clear commitment to offering products that help consumers make health-conscious choices while still enjoying their food.

 

4.   Archer-Daniels-Midland Company (ADM):

Founding Year

1902

Headquarters

Chicago, Illinois, United States

Website

https://www.adm.com/

 

Archer-Daniels-Midland Company, commonly known as ADM, is a leading American multinational food processing and commodities trading corporation founded in 1902 and headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. With over 270 plants and 420 crop procurement facilities worldwide, ADM specializes in transforming agricultural commodities such as cereal grains and oilseeds into products used across various sectors, including food, beverage, nutraceuticals, and animal feed. The company operates through three primary business segments: Ag Services and Oilseeds, Carbohydrate Solutions, and Nutrition, providing a wide range of ingredients and solutions for human and animal nutrition. As one of the largest agricultural supply chain managers globally, ADM emphasizes sustainability and innovation while generating significant revenue, ranking No. 35 on the 2023 Fortune 500 list of the largest U.S. corporations. Under the leadership of CEO Juan Ricardo Luciano, ADM continues to play a crucial role in the global food supply chain.

ADM offers a comprehensive range of edible oils, catering to various culinary and industrial applications. Their portfolio includes:

Soybean and Sunflower Oil

Soybean oil is suitable for frying, baking, and processed foods, available in both conventional and non-GMO options. Sunflower oil, known for its light flavor and high smoke point, is ideal for frying and salad dressings, with ADM offering non-GMO varieties that emphasize health benefits and culinary versatility.

Canola Oil and Palm Oil

ADM offers high-quality canola oil and palm oil to meet diverse culinary needs. Canola oil is low in saturated fat and suitable for high-heat cooking, available in both conventional and non-GMO options for health-conscious consumers. Palm oil, used in various food products, comes in grades like refined, bleached, and deodorized (RBD), with ADM committed to sustainable sourcing practices.

Specialty Oils

ADM offers a range of specialty oils, including high-oleic oils, interesterified oils, and hydrogenated oils, tailored for specific applications in the food industry. These oils are designed to meet functional requirements such as improved shelf life and desired texture.

In summary, ADM's extensive edible oils portfolio, commitment to quality, and sustainable sourcing practices position it as a significant player in the global edible oils industry, capable of meeting diverse consumer needs.

 

5.   Louis Dreyfus Company

Founding Year

1851

Headquarters

Rotterdam, Netherlands

Website

https://www.ldc.com/

 

Louis Dreyfus Company (LDC) is a prominent global merchant and processor of agricultural goods, founded in 1851 by Léopold Dreyfus and headquartered in Rotterdam, Netherlands. The company operates across the entire agricultural value chain, from origination to distribution, and is involved in a diverse range of commodities, including grains, oilseeds, coffee, cotton, rice, and sugar. LDC plays a vital role in feeding and clothing approximately 500 million people annually by processing and transporting around 80 million tons of products each year. With a presence in over 100 countries and employing around 18,000 people globally, Louis Dreyfus Company emphasizes sustainability and ethical practices while contributing to the global food supply chain. The company is recognized as one of the "ABCD" firms that dominate agricultural commodity trading alongside Archer Daniels Midland, Bunge, and Cargill.

LDC's edible oils portfolio is extensive, encompassing various types of oils derived from multiple sources to meet diverse culinary and industrial needs. The key products include:

Palm Kernel Oil

Palm kernel oil is solid at room temperature, making it ideal for use in margarine and other food products that require a firm texture. It is high in lauric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid known for its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. Often used in margarine, cookies, and other processed foods requiring solid fat.

Specialty Oils

Louis Dreyfus Company (LDC) provides specialty oils for various culinary uses, including grape seed oil, which has a high smoke point and light flavor for cooking and dressings; safflower oil, a healthy option with low saturated fat; and perilla seed oil, known for its distinct flavor and omega-3 fatty acids, popular in Asian cuisine.

Corn Oil

Corn oil is extracted from the germ of corn kernels and is widely used in frying and baking due to its light flavor and high smoke point, making it ideal for high-heat cooking. It is rich in polyunsaturated fats, providing essential fatty acids that contribute to overall health. Additionally, corn oil contains phytosterols, which may help lower cholesterol levels and promote heart health. Common applications include frying, deep-frying, and various food preparation methods.

From commonly used oils like soybean, sunflower, and canola, to specialized oils like safflower and grape seed oils, LDC offers products that cater to various culinary, health, and sustainability needs. The company emphasizes sustainable sourcing, non-GMO options, and advanced processing techniques to deliver oils that meet global standards of quality and consumer expectations.

The Palm Oil Controversy: Concerns and Criticism

From Health Perspective:

Healthwise, palm oil raises several concerns primarily due to its high saturated fat content. Excessive consumption of saturated fats can lead to increased cholesterol levels, which are associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes. Although palm oil is plant-based, it contains a higher proportion of saturated fats compared to other vegetable oils, such as olive or canola oil, which are richer in healthier unsaturated fats. Additionally, during the refining process, palm oil can be partially hydrogenated, resulting in the formation of trans fats that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. While palm oil itself has relatively low levels of trans fats, its presence in processed foods like baked goods and snacks can contribute to unhealthy trans-fat intake. There is also potential for allergic reactions to palm oil, particularly when used in skincare or cosmetic products, especially in its unrefined state. Furthermore, palm oil is low in essential fatty acids, particularly omega-3s, which are crucial for brain health and reducing inflammation; relying on palm oil as a primary fat source may lead to nutritional imbalances in diets lacking diverse healthy fats.

According to TechSci Research report “India Edible Oil Market By Product Type (Mustard Oil, Soybean Oil, Sunflower Oil, Palm Oil, Olive Oil, and Others), By Packaging Type (Pouches, Jars, Cans, and Bottles), By Sales Channel (Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Online, and Others), By Region, By Competition Forecast & Opportunities, 2019-2029F” India Edible Oil Market has valued at USD4.2 billion in 2023 and is anticipated to project robust growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 1.5% through 2029.

From Biodiversity Perspective:

Biodiversity concerns related to palm oil production are significant, primarily due to deforestation and habitat destruction. The expansion of palm oil plantations in tropical countries like Indonesia and Malaysia leads to large-scale deforestation, which not only destroys vast rainforests but also disrupts fragile ecosystems that support diverse species, including endangered ones like orangutans, tigers, and rhinoceroses. As plantations encroach on natural forests and wetlands, critical habitats are lost, further endangering species and exacerbating climate change through the draining of peatlands. Additionally, the establishment of palm oil plantations often displaces indigenous communities from their traditional lands, disrupting their way of life and depriving them of essential resources. The clearing of land can cause soil erosion and water pollution from pesticides and fertilizers, while monoculture farming practices reduce genetic diversity and make ecosystems more vulnerable to diseases and pests. Overall, these factors contribute significantly to biodiversity loss and environmental degradation.

Conclusion

The edible oil industry is a vital component of the global food sector, impacting both nutrition and economies worldwide. With diverse sources ranging from vegetable and animal fats to specialty blends, edible oils serve essential culinary functions while also contributing to health outcomes. While oils rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, such as olive and flaxseed oil, offer cardiovascular benefits, concerns persist over saturated fats and trans fats found in some processed varieties. As a result, consumer preferences are shifting towards healthier alternatives, influencing market trends and regulatory changes.

According to TechSci Research report “Europe Edible Oils Market By Product Type (Mustard Oil, Soybean Oil, Sunflower Oil, Palm Oil, Olive Oil, and Others), By Packaging Type (Pouches, Jars, Cans, and Bottles), By Sales Channel (Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Online, and Others), By Region, By Competition Forecast & Opportunities 2018-2028F” Europe Edible Oils Market has valued at USD18.99 billion in 2022 and is anticipated to project robust growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 6.02% through 2028.

Economically, edible oils drive global trade, with major producers like Indonesia, Malaysia, and the United States supplying key markets such as India, China, and the EU. Price volatility due to climate change, trade policies, and geopolitical tensions underscores the industry's complexity. Sustainability is also a pressing concern, particularly regarding palm oil, which is linked to deforestation and biodiversity loss. Certification programs like RSPO aim to address these issues, but challenges remain.

Leading companies, including Cargill, Wilmar International, Marico, ADM, and Louis Dreyfus, play significant roles in refining, distribution, and innovation. As demand for healthier and more sustainable oils grows, industry advancements in alternative sources and processing methods will shape the future of edible oils, balancing health, environmental, and economic considerations.

Relevant blogs

Top 10 Corrugated Boxes Manufacturers in the World04 Feb, 2025

Corrugated boxes are commonly used for shipping, storage, and packaging across various industries due to ...

Top 5 Edible Oil Manufacturers Worldwide30 Jan, 2025

Edible oils are fats derived from plants, animals, or synthetic sources that are safe for human consumption.

Essential Protein Sources in Animal Nutrition: Common Feed Ingredients Explained30 Jan, 2025

Protein is an essential nutrient in animal nutrition. Whether for livestock, poultry, or companion animals, ...

How Top 5 Luxury Brands Have Thrived in a Mass-Market World29 Jan, 2025

Luxury brands are widely recognized for their exceptional craftsmanship, exclusivity, and long-standing ...

Top 10 Leather Goods Companies That Lead the Industry28 Jan, 2025

Leather, sourced from animal hides, is a natural material valued for its durability, strength, and ...

Top 10 Tissue Paper Companies Globally28 Jan, 2025

The tissue paper industry is a major player in the global hygiene market, offering a variety of essentials ...

 

Request your query

captcha
Letters are not case-sensitive