Geographical Origin and Industrial Uses of Palm Oil

Statement 1 is incorrect because the oil palm tree (Elaeis guineensis) is native to West and Central Africa, though Southeast Asia (Indonesia and Malaysia) dominates its modern commercial cultivation. Statement 2 is correct as its emollient properties make it a staple ingredient in cosmetics like lipsticks and perfumes. Statement 3 is correct because palm oil methyl ester is a primary feedstock for biodiesel production. > While commercially dominated by Southeast Asia, oil palm is natively African and serves as a major feedstock for consumer cosmetics and biofuels. Answer: (b).