Science & Technology

Associate Professor Dr. Mudtorlep Nisoa, Head of the Functional Materials & Nanotechnology Center of Excellence and Laboratory (FunTech) at Walailak University, has developed microwave technology for use in the process of extracting red palm oil to help preserve its nutrients and enhance its price in the market. 

This technology is suitable for local communities to invest in, with no investment exceeding 10 million Baht. 

Dr. Mudtorlep said, “This technology has a high potential to thrive in the market, especially in southern Thailand where a lot of oil palm is cultivated, and farmers can produce palm oil in large quantities. Five kilograms of raw palm fruit can yield one liter of palm oil. Not to mention 1,200 Baht per liter, just 500 – 600 Baht per liter can greatly boost the economy.”

Palm oil has been widely known for its use as a renewable energy source and for cooking purposes. However, not many people are aware that it contains high levels of nutrients. Red palm oil, in particular, has a high level of Vitamin E and beta-carotene, which is a carotenoid or pigment found in plants that acts as an antioxidant for humans. And our bodies can convert beta-carotene into Vitamin A. 

The beta-carotene in red palm oil is 15 times higher than that in carrots and 300 times higher than that in tomatoes. The microwave technology helps shorten the amount of heating time used with palm fruits, thereby helping preserve their rich nutrients. 

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, in 2019, Thailand was responsible for 4 percent of the global production of palm oil, or the third following Indonesia and Malaysia, with a production of up to 2.8 million tons. 

In addition to using it as an ingredient in salad dressings, margarine, and ice cream, palm oil can also be used in skincare products. This has led to an increase in the value of palm oil, reaching up to 1,200 Baht per liter.

“In Thailand, the utilization of palm oil's benefits as food or cosmetics is still quite limited. That's why the research we've been working on focuses on red palm oil to be used both as food and as a raw material for cosmetics. We will continue to improve this technology and make sure it reaches the standards."