Niger ( Guizotia abyssinica Cass.) seed oil plays an important role in human nutrition and health because of its fatty acid composition and its high levels of fat-soluble bioactive components. The oil has an attractive pale yellow color and a nutty taste. With high levels of linoleic acid, it is very similar to sunflower and safflower oils.
What is the difference between Niger seed oil and Ethiopian Seed oil?
Niger seed oil, like sunflower and safflower oils, contains high content of omega-6 PUFA i.e. linoleic acid (63-75%).8 The Ethiopian seed contains about 40% oil with fatty acid composition of 75-80% linoleic acid, 7-8% palmitic and stearic acids, 5-8% oleic acid.
What are Niger seeds?
Niger seeds with the scientific name of Guizotia abyssinica Cass and English name of Niger from Asteraceae family contain high‐quality oils with potential applications in nutraceutical and pharmaceutical fields.
What is the fatty acid composition of Niger seed oil?
Niger seed oil has a fatty acid composition typical for seed oils of the Compositae family (e.g., safflower and sunflower), with linoleic acid as the dominant fatty acid. The fatty acid composition of niger seed oil typically 7–8% palmitic and stearic acids, 5–25% oleic acid, and 55–80% linoleic acid (Getinet & Teklewold, 1995 ).