What distinguishes canola from rapeseed?

The primary distinction between canola and rapeseed is that canola has lower levels of saturated fat, making it a healthier option for cooking oils and food products. Specifically, canola oil is bred to contain a higher monounsaturated fat content and lower saturated fat levels compared to traditional rapeseed oil. This characteristic is particularly important for health-conscious consumers, as diets lower in saturated fat can contribute to a reduced risk of heart disease.

In contrast, while canola may have certain advantages in terms of yield and climate adaptability, the most significant difference that highlights its nutritional value is the lower saturation of fat. The breeding process for canola specifically aimed to create an oil with better health profiles, which significantly set it apart from conventional rapeseed oil, which contains higher levels of erucic acid and is generally considered less desirable for consumption.