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The main characteristics of palm oil (in general, which also apply to Peruvian palm oil) primarily concern its fatty acid composition and its physical and usage properties.

1. Nutritional and Chemical Composition
High Saturated Fat Content: It is one of the few vegetable oils naturally semi-solid at room temperature, thanks to its high saturated fat content (around 45-50% of the total).

The predominant saturated fatty acid is Palmitic Acid (approx. 35-48%).

Unsaturated Fatty Acids: It also contains a significant amount of unsaturated fats.

The predominant monounsaturated fatty acid is Oleic Acid (approx. 35-50%), the same found in olive oil.

It also contains polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as Linoleic Acid (Omega-6).

Vitamins and Antioxidants (Unrefined Oil):

Crude (unrefined) palm oil (also called red palm oil) is one of the richest plant sources of Beta-carotene (a precursor to Vitamin A), which gives it its characteristic reddish-orange color.

It is an important source of Vitamin E, particularly tocotrienols.

2. Physical Properties and Stability
Melting Point: It is semi-solid or solid at room temperature (around 25-30 °C or 77-86 °F). This characteristic makes it highly valued by the food industry as it offers a solid consistency without the need for hydrogenation (which creates trans fats).

Oxidative Stability: It is highly stable to heat and oxidation due to its composition, making it ideal for frying and for extending the shelf life of food products.

Odor and Flavor: Refined oil, which is the most commonly used in the food and cosmetic industries, is generally neutral in terms of flavor and odor.

3. Main Uses
Palm oil (and its derivatives like palm kernel oil) is extremely versatile:

Food Industry: Used in baked goods, confectionery, margarine, spreads, ice cream, and cooking oils, as a substitute for hydrogenated fats.

Cosmetics: Used in the production of soaps, detergents, shampoos, and skin/hair care products, due to its foaming and emollient properties.

Biofuels: It is an important raw material for the production of biodiesel and biofuels