Oilseed Crops

Oilseeds are a very important component of semi-tropical and tropical agriculture, providing easily available and highly nutritious human and animal food. Many also have industrial uses and are relatively easy to incorporate into locally manufactured products. This book gathers together scientific, economic and field practice information on the most widespread oilseed crops. After a discussion on world production and trade in oilseeds there are separate chapters on castor, groundnut, safflower, sesame, soya and sunflower, crambe, niger and jojoba. A final chapter looks in detail at oilseed processing operations and the great variety of products and uses for oilseeds. This new edition has been completely rewritten to include the latest agricultural research, the influence of biotechnology on crops and processing, and advances in farm machinery and equipment. The book is a valuable reference for all involved directly or indirectly with oilseed production, research and processing.

Edward Weiss has specialised in the production of oilseeds and essential oils, and has had extensive practical experience throughout the tropics, particularly in East Africa, where he was for several years Head of Research and Development for a large agricultural corporation, and adviser on oilseeds and essential oils to East African governments, He is now based in Melbourne.