Next Generation Feedstocks From New Frontiers in Oilseed Engineering

Recent advances in molecular breeding techniques along with developing tools for Genomics and Proteomics are delivering new oil seed profiles for industrial applications. Ultra high Oleic, Erucic and blends including Hydroxy fatty acids are now, or will be shortly, available in a variety of oilseed crops including Soybean and Canola as well as Flax. As a result, vegetable oils need to be re-examined by industry for specific applications. Feedstocks and base oils derived from oil seeds are renewable as well as biodegradable. A brief summary of recent progress is presented together with a description of new research into the development of an alternative source of Hydroxy fatty acids to replace castor oil and an overview of an enzyme engineering approach to create new enzymes for seed oil modification.