Oilseeds are seeds that are grown specifically for the oil they produce. Common examples include soybeans, sunflower seeds, canola, and peanuts. These seeds are rich in fats and oils, which can be extracted and used for cooking, food production, and industrial applications. The oil extracted from these seeds is often used in salad dressings, frying, and as an ingredient in various processed foods.
In addition to their culinary uses, oilseeds are also important in agriculture and animal feed. The leftover meal after oil extraction is high in protein and is commonly used as feed for livestock. Oilseeds play a crucial role in global agriculture, contributing to food security and economic stability in many regions.