Edible Oils Manufacturing Industry Overview

Excerpt from Edible Oils Manufacturing Report

Companies in this industry manufacture oils through wet-milling corn (separating corn into its basic components); processing soybeans, tree nuts, and vegetables into oil; refining vegetable fats; and blending vegetable fats with purchased animal fats. Major companies include Archer Daniels Midland, Bunge, Cargill, CHS, and Ingredion.

Competitive Landscape

Demand is driven by consumer trends in consuming sweeteners, fats, and food oils, and in eating meat, since soybean meal is used primarily to feed poultry, swine, and cattle. The profitability of individual companies depends on managing raw material costs, leveraging federal farm subsidies, and operating efficiently. Large companies have advantages in purchasing, distribution, and marketing. Small operations can compete effectively by serving a local market or offering specialized products. The industry is highly concentrated: the eight largest companies account for about 80 percent of industry revenue.

Products, Operations & Technology

Major products include soybean cake and meal; shortening and cooking oils; and corn sweeteners. Other products include margarine, butter blends, butter substitutes, and soybean oil.