GLOBAL PROSPECTIVES OF FATS AND OILS USES - PRESENT AND FUTURE

The paper shows current overview and the perspectives related to the p roduction of oilseeds, fats and oils as well as the consumption of the m. The study is based on the evolution of several variables such as ch anges in population, policies, incomes, prices, availability of natura l resources (land for agriculture) and environmental impact. With resp ect to technology, the work comments the possible influences of biotec hnology, transportation systems, milling, and some transformations for specific uses. Among the promising uses of vegetable oils the followi ng are mentioned: utilization as biodiesel, adhesives, biodegraded pla stics, printing inks, lubricating oils, hydraulic fluids or, even, new tendencies in the area of nutrition (foods with pharmacological effec ts).