High acid palm oil, more accurately known as palm oil with a high free fatty acid (FFA) content, is a specialized product that is either specifically produced or generated as a by-product of the crude palm oil (CPO) refining process. Unlike standard CPO, which has a low FFA content and is used for consumption, this type of oil has a chemical profile that makes it unsuitable for food applications. The high FFA content is its defining characteristic, making it a highly sought-after raw material for non-food industries that require a concentrated source of fatty acids.

Due to its unique properties, high FFA palm oil is a key component in a variety of industrial sectors. It serves as a reliable and cost-effective feedstock for the oleochemical industry, where it is further processed into fatty acids, glycerin, and fatty alcohols. Additionally, it plays a vital role in the production of biodiesel as a renewable fuel source, and is an essential base ingredient in the manufacturing of soaps and detergents. Its versatility and economic value make it a crucial commodity that supports a significant part of the global industrial supply chain.