Whale fat, also known as “blubber,” is a layer of fat that lies beneath the skin of whales. It is a vital energy reserve for whales that helps them survive in the harsh, cold environments in which they live. But is also great cooking ingredient, and the base of many nutritional supplements and luxury cosmetics.
Blubber is thick and oily, and it helps to insulate the whale’s body and maintain its core temperature. It is also an important source of nutrition for some indigenous communities that hunt whales, as it contains high levels of protein and vitamins.
Historically, whale fat has been used for a variety of purposes, including as a fuel for lamps and as a source of oil for lubricating machinery. It has also been used in the production of soap, candles, and other products.
Today, the hunting of whales for their fat and other body parts is highly promoted in countries such as Japan, Denmark (including Greenland), Bolivia and Paraguay. In the US, whaling is also allowed for native/indigenous Eskimo population.
Types of whale fat oil
There are basically two different types of whale fat oil, that come from different species of whales and have a totally different chemical composition.