Understanding the Different Grades of Castor Oil

Castor oil is one of the most versatile vegetable oils in the global market, known for its unique chemical structure, high ricinoleic acid content, and broad applications across industries. At Marilink Exports, we specialize in supplying various grades of castor oil tailored to meet the specific requirements of industrial, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food sectors. Understanding the differences between castor oil grades is essential for businesses that demand quality, consistency, and regulatory compliance in their formulations.

1. Commercial Grade Castor Oil

Commercial grade castor oil is the most commonly used variety, primarily intended for industrial applications. Extracted from castor seeds through mechanical pressing followed by clarification, it contains minor impurities and a characteristic pale yellow color. This grade is widely used in the manufacture of lubricants, paints, coatings, adhesives, and plastics. It is valued for its affordability and functional properties in technical processes, although it is not suitable for pharmaceutical or food applications due to lower purity standards.

2. First Special Grade (FSG) Castor Oil

FSG castor oil is a refined form of commercial castor oil and meets specifications for higher purity and clarity. It is widely used in the cosmetics, personal care, and chemical industries. FSG castor oil is obtained through solvent extraction or expeller pressing and is then refined to remove free fatty acids, moisture, and impurities. Its light color and low acid value make it suitable for manufacturing soaps, shampoos, creams, and various specialty chemical derivatives such as sebacic acid and polyamides.

3. Pale Pressed Grade (PPG) Castor Oil

Pale Pressed Grade castor oil is a premium quality oil extracted from the first pressing of high-quality castor seeds without the use of heat or chemicals. It is extremely light in color and contains minimal impurities. This grade is particularly suited for the cosmetics, personal care, and pharmaceutical industries where appearance, purity, and odor are critical. Due to its high viscosity and clarity, PPG castor oil is commonly used in products such as lip balms, ointments, and emulsions.

4. Pharmaceutical Grade Castor Oil (IP / BP / USP)

Pharmaceutical grade castor oil conforms to international pharmacopeia standards such as Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP), British Pharmacopoeia (BP), or United States Pharmacopeia (USP). This grade is highly refined and sterilized, ensuring it is free from impurities, bacteria, and heavy metals. It is used in the production of laxatives, ophthalmic products, and as an excipient in tablets and capsules. Its safety and purity make it suitable for both human and veterinary medicinal applications.

5. Hydrogenated Castor Oil (HCO) / Castor Wax

Hydrogenated castor oil, also known as castor wax, is produced by saturating the oil’s unsaturated bonds using a hydrogenation process. The result is a hard, brittle, and odorless wax that is insoluble in water and resistant to moisture. HCO is widely used in the cosmetics, lubricants, coatings, candles, and plastic industries due to its excellent emollient and thickening properties.

6. Food Grade Castor Oil (Esterified or Refined)

Though less common, food-grade castor oil is used as a food additive, flavoring agent, or in food-grade lubricants and mold-release agents. It must adhere to stringent food safety regulations and be completely free of toxins and solvents. This oil is especially relevant in specialized food applications, including food packaging and flavor encapsulation.

Choosing the Right Grade for Your Application

At Marilink Exports, we offer all major grades of castor oil in bulk quantities, ensuring each batch is tested for quality, performance, and compliance. Whether you’re a manufacturer of pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, plastics, or specialty chemicals, we provide castor oil solutions tailored to your exact formulation needs.

As a trusted supplier of castor oil and its derivatives, we help clients navigate grade selection, documentation, and international sourcing with transparency and efficiency. If you are looking for a reliable partner for high-quality bulk castor oil, connect with Marilink Exports to learn how we can support your business.