Spring rape

Other names: Canola, Brassica napus

Spring rapeseed, also known as Canola or Brassica napus, is one of the main sources of vegetable oil, making it one of the most produced cereals in the world. This plant is a member of the cruciferous family and is considered to be one of the most important crops in world agriculture. Spring rape seedlings are usually sown in spring and harvested in summer, when the seedlings turn a golden yellow colour and reach their optimum oil content.

Because of its properties, the products of spring rape are widely used in many industries. These are mainly in the agricultural sector, where rapeseed oil is used as animal feed. Rapeseed oil is also very popular in the food industry. It has a mild taste and is rich in unsaturated fatty acids, especially omega-3 and omega-6, making it a healthy alternative to other vegetable oils. It is also used in the production of margarine and other butter substitutes, as well as in the cosmetics industry for the production of creams, soaps and other products. It is also increasingly used as a source for biofuels around the world.