Camelina revival has ethical benefits

Demand for omega-3 has resulted in speciality oils supplier The Kerfoot Group paying Moldovan farmers to grow extra Camelina, which can produce oil rich in short chain omega-3.

Once grown widely across the UK, Europe and North America, Camelina seed oil fell out of favour because it was more costly to produce than rapeseed oil.

However, the earthy flavoured Camelina seed oil is thought to offer great health benefits because it contains almost four times as much omega-3 fatty acid as rapeseed oil (35% compared to 9% respectively), claims the firm.

To ensure that it can meet soaring demand for the seed oil, Kerfoot will be growing organic Camelina as part of its recently established trade agreement with farmers in a remote area of the Republic of Moldova.

Kerfoot global development manager Nimrit Hayre (pictured right) says: "The trade agreement will provide farmers with a higher income than they would get from growing traditional cereal crops. We wanted to expand our production of Camelina seed oil because it is experiencing something of a rebirth at the moment due to its high omega-3 fatty acid content."

Contact: The Kerfoot Group; Tel: 01609 766790​