How Top 10 Cooking Oil Companies Are Focusing on Health and Fitness

Cooking oil, a versatile and indispensable ingredient in the culinary world, has been an essential part of human food preparation for centuries. These synthetic fats, derived from various sources, add flavor, texture, and aroma to a wide range of dishes, making them a fundamental component of our daily meals. From the sizzle of frying to the gentle simmer of baking, oils play a vital role in creating delightful gastronomic experiences.

In the dynamic landscape of the modern food industry, oils have evolved beyond their traditional uses. Today, oils derived from palm, canola, sunflower, soybean, and even avocado are celebrated for their numerous health benefits. The demand for organic and unsaturated healthier products is on the rise as consumers become more health-conscious and prioritize nutritional values in their diets.

In response to the growing focus on health and fitness, the trend toward low-fat diets has emerged, which can sometimes lead to inadequate intake of essential fat-soluble micronutrients. To address this concern, fortifying cooking oils with micronutrients is gaining traction, significantly enhancing their nutritional value. Governments across the globe are recognizing the importance of food fortification in achieving global nutrition goals, and many countries have already taken proactive steps to promote oil fortification through large-scale initiatives.

Powered by these factors, the market for cooking oil is likely to experience a rapid boom over the next several years. Fortune Business Insights™ predicts that this market’s valuation could surpass USD 281.72 billion by 2028. It is also estimated that the market will register a CAGR of 4.67% between 2021 and 2028.

Fortune Business Insights™ Presents the 10 Prominent Companies of Cooking Oil

1. Cargill Incorporated

Cargill Inc. is one of the top 10 cooking oil brands in the world, with a strong presence in over 70 countries. The company offers a diverse cooking oil portfolio focused on sourcing, trade, processing, and distribution. Cargill Inc. invested USD 35 million in November 2021 to upgrade an edible oil refinery in Nellore, India, expanding its production capacity.

2. Archer Daniels Midland Company

Daniels Midland Company is a key player in the food and beverage industry. Operating in 200 countries with 62 R&D centers, the company's cooking-oils cater to various sectors. Its focus on innovation, exemplified by investments in joint ventures, is strengthening its product portfolio and market share. Archer–Daniel–Midland's investment in Edible Oils Ltd., in October 2021, increased production by 50% and expanded packaging options.

3. Fuji Oil Company, Ltd.

Japanese-based Fuji Oil Company produces cooking oils & fats, confectionery and bakery items, and soy products and concentrates on technology management and research and development activities. The company’s dedication to globalizing R&D and expanding its innovation ecosystem in oils and fats highlights its commitment to providing cutting-edge products. Fuji Oil Company established its first R&D center in Europe in August 2021 to drive innovation in oils and fats.

4. Conagra Brands Inc.

Conagra Brands Inc. is involved in manufacturing and distributing packaged foods and takes sustainability seriously. Their disclosure of deforestation risk management practices for various ingredients reflects its responsible supply chain practices. Conagra Brands disclosed deforestation risk management practices in 2020, earning a Leadership A score for palm oil.

5. Wilmar International Ltd.

Wilmar International Ltd. engages in various business activities related to edible oils, sugar, and more. Its strategic partnerships and acquisitions are geared toward strengthening its product portfolio and enhancing palm oil production in the region. Wilmar International acquired a palm oil refinery in Malaysia in April 2019 to enhance production in the region.

6. CJ Cheiljedang Corporation

The South Korean food company, CJ Cheiljedang Corporation, has a strong presence globally. Its acquisition of a U.S. food business showcases its commitment to meeting consumers' growing demand worldwide. CJ Cheiljedang Corporation acquired Schwan’s Company in February 2019 to serve growing consumer demand in the U.S.

7. Associated British Foods PLC

Associated British Foods PLC offers cooking oils under well-known brand names such as Capullo and Mazola and aims to eliminate deforestation in their soy and palm supply chain. The company’s active participation in sustainability initiatives highlights its commitment to environmental welfare. Associated British Foods aims to eliminate deforestation in soy and palm supply chains by 2025.

8. Bunge Ltd.

Bunge Ltd. focuses on various food and agriculture services. The company has a global presence in more than 40 countries. Its product relaunches and rebranding initiatives demonstrate its dedication to boosting the consumer base and offering nutritious options. Bunge India re-launched Hudson Canola oil fortified with Vitamin E and high MUFA and omega 3 content in January 2020.

9. IFFCO Group

IFFCO Group, based in the UAE, offers cooking-oil under multiple brands such as Golden Maize, Hayat Sunny, and Noor. The company’s products with international certifications emphasize its commitment to sourcing, processing, and sustainable palm oil facilities. FFCO Group offers environmentally and socially conscious products with international certifications.

10. Ottogi Co. Ltd.

Ottogi Co. Ltd. specializes in manufacturing food products such as cooking oils, ketchup, mayonnaise, noodles, ramen, and others, with high nutritional value. Its investment in R&D facilities enables it to expand its product portfolio and meet consumer demands for organic and clean-label variants. Ottogi Co. Ltd completed a new R&D center in May 2020 to expand its product portfolio and meet consumer demands.

Balancing Health and Flavor: Food Fortification is Transforming the Cooking Oil Industry

As consumers become more conscious of their dietary choices and seek healthier options, the market for fortified cooking oils is set to witness substantial growth in the coming years. The combined efforts of governments, food manufacturers, and consumers toward embracing healthier and more nutritious cooking-oils will undoubtedly contribute to improved overall well-being and a sustainable future.

The market is constantly evolving, driven by changing consumer preferences, health-conscious choices, and sustainable packaging trends. From enhancing the flavors of our favorite dishes to enriching them with essential nutrients, cooking-oils have become an indispensable aspect of modern-day culinary practices. As we journey toward a healthier and more sustainable future, embracing the nutritional benefits of fortified cooking-oils will undoubtedly play a crucial role in achieving global nutrition goals and promoting overall well-being.