Question

Visit an oil mill to observe how oil is pressed out of oil seeds and write a description of the process.

Answer 1

1. Collection and Cleaning: Seeds like mustard, sesame, or groundnut are delivered and cleaned to remove impurities using sifters and blowers.

2. Crushing/Pressing: Seeds are cracked or dehulled, mildly heated (if needed), and pressed in machines to extract oil. The leftover oil cake is collected.

3. Filtration: Crude oil is filtered or centrifuged to remove impurities.

4. Refining (Optional): Some mills refine oil to improve quality and shelf life.

5. Packaging: Filtered oil is stored and packed into bottles or containers.

6. Byproducts: Oil cake is used as livestock feed, and husks may be used as fuel. Hygiene and quality control are crucial throughout the process.