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This map reflects the data from the Food & Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. It reveals the two most commonly used vegetable oils in proportion to each other, in each country. The vegetables included are sunflower seed oil, mustard seed oil, soybean oil, rice bran oil, palm oil, sesame seed oil, canola oil, olive oil, coconut oil, cottonseed oil, peanut oil, corn oil, and palm kernel oil.
Full List of Most Common Cooking Oils per Country
Europe
A variety of different vegetable oils are commonly used in Europe. Sunflower seed oil is most commonly used in Eastern Europe. Olive oil is more often used in countries that border the Mediterranean. Their hot, dry summers and mild winters, is well-suited for olive cultivation. In the northern regions of Europe, canola oil is more popular, since canola thrives in cooler climates. In addition, soybean oil is also widely used in Europe.
Africa
In Africa, a variety of vegetable oils are commonly used, and the choice of oil often depends on regional availability, culinary traditions, and economic factors. Palm oil is one of the most widely used cooking oils in Sub-Saharan Africa. Peanut oil is another commonly used vegetable oil. It is especially popular in West Africa. It is commonly used in various traditional dishes, including stews, soups, and fried foods. Sesame seed oil is most often found in Southern Africa. In addition, soybean oil is also widely used in some parts of Africa.
Asia
In Asia, various types of vegetable oils are commonly used, reflecting the diverse culinary traditions across the continent. Soybean oil is one of the most widely used vegetable oils. It is suitable for various cooking methods, including frying, sautéing, and stir-frying. Palm oil is commonly used in Southeast Asia and the Arabian Peninsula. Sunflower oil is also popular in many Central Asian and Middle Eastern countries. Cottonseed Oil is a unique product, also commonly used in Central Asia.
Oceania
Canola is well-suited to the climatic conditions of Australia. The crop is adapted to grow in temperate climates, and Australia’s diverse agricultural regions, including parts of Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria, and New South Wales, provide suitable environments for canola cultivation. Canola is a rotation crop, and its cultivation is integrated into many Australian farming systems.
North America
Soybean oil is predominate in North America. Soybeans are well-suited to the agricultural practices and climate of North America. They are often rotated with other crops, contributing to sustainable farming practices and soil health. In Canada, the climate is cooler, so canola oil is more commonly used there. Palm oil is another vegetable oil that is especially common in Central America and the Caribbean.
South America
Like in North America, soybean oil is widely used in South America. Brazil and Argentina are major producers of soybeans, and soybean oil is a staple in the region’s cuisine. Palm oil and vegetable oil are two other commonly used vegetable oils in South American countries. Still, the specific use of vegetable oils can vary across South America’s regions.
