Corn germ oil – a refined vegetable oil extracted from maize embryos with elevated unsaturated fat content
Julia Wójcik
2026-03-19
2 min. read
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This plant-derived oil, obtained from the germ of maize kernels, is distinguished by its substantial concentration of both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. The predominant component is linoleic acid (an omega-6 fatty acid), which may constitute up to seventy percent of the total fatty acid profile, whereas oleic acid (an omega-9 fatty acid) accounts for as much as thirty percent. Additionally, it contains the saturated palmitic acid, though in comparatively lower proportions relative to the aforementioned unsaturated compounds.
Corn oil properties
Corn oil contains a very large amount of unsaturated fatty acids. It is an oily acid (with a content of up to 30%), linoleic acid (up to 70%), as well as palmitic acid. corn oil is a good source of vitamin E. It's one of the antioxidants. Binding free radicals, on the one hand, improves the appearance of the skin, hair and nails, and on the other hand, it can be used in cancer prevention.
Corn oil use
Unrefined corn oil is hard to find because it undergoes a quick oxidation process. It cannot be fried at high temperatures. It is perfect for salads and cold snacks. It can be made with mayonnaise. The maximum temperature at which it can be heated is 90 degrees Celsius. At higher temperatures it loses its precious properties.