OPDA to discuss bids for biodiesel plant

The Odessa Public Development Authority will hold its regular monthly meeting on Monday, May 20, at 7 p.m. in the Guild Room in the lower level of the hospital. Of interest to the community will be a discussion of two bids received for purchase of the former biodiesel plant at Odessa’s western town limits, according to OPDA manager Stacy Rasmussen. The public is encouraged to attend and provide input at this important meeting.

The two bids have come from oil processing companies, one of which intends to produce hemp oil and the other canola oil. Both products are legal in all 50 states of the U.S. and contain no psycho-active substances.

According to Zliving.com, a health-related website, “Hemp seeds are rich in protein, polyunsaturated fatty acids, omega 6, omega 3 and insoluble fiber. They are a good source of tocopherols or Vitamin E antioxidants. They’re packed with minerals such as potassium, magnesium, iron, zinc, calcium, and phosphorus, plus microelements like strontium, thorium, arsenic and chromium.

High in essential fatty acids, Omega 6 and omega 3, hemp oil can be used to increase immunity, counteract aging skin and improve cardiovascular health. Several studies show that the linoleic acid present in hemp oil can slow down the aging process and fight psoriasis.”

Another website, http://www.healthprep.com, provides some pros and cons of canola oil. “Canola oil is another very common cooking oil. According to the USDA, canola oil is a good source of monounsaturated fats as well as omega-3 fatty acid. This oil is low in saturated fat and has no cholesterol or trans fat, which helps lower the patient’s risk of coronary heart disease and cardiovascular disease. Another pro is canola oil may help reduce the risk of cancers and cancer growth.

The first con of cooking with canola oil is that approximately ninety-three percent of canola oil in the United States is genetically engineered. Furthermore, canola oil is also high in calories and can contain trans fats, which can lead to coronary heart disease.

Canola oil can be beneficial to health if it is USDA approved organic. However, processed canola oils can have many cons. Weigh the pros and cons before deciding which cooking oil to purchase.”

Much more information on different types of processed oils can be found on various websites.