Publisher's Synopsis
Scientists in Canada developed an edible version of the rapeseed plant, which - on its own - harbors toxic compounds called erucic acid and glucosinolates. The name "canola" comes from "Canada" and "ola," denoting oil. Although the canola plant looks identical to the rapeseed plant, it contains different nutrients and its oil is safe for human consumption.Ever since the canola plant was created, plant breeders have developed many varieties that improved seed quality and led to a boom in canola oil manufacturing. Most canola crops are genetically modified (GMO) to improve oil quality and increase plant tolerance to herbicides. In fact, over 90% of the canola crops grown in the United States are GMO.Canola crops are used to create canola oil and canola meal, which is commonly used as animal feed. Canola oil can also be used as a fuel alternative to diesel and a component of items made with plasticizers, such as tires.
