More and more people are concerned about the health and well being of their families. With this concern, consumers are trying to avoid partially hydrogenated oil, which is the trans-fatty acids found in common snack foods. Palm oil is a healthier alternative from partially hydrogenated oil for people, but is affecting the way of life for orangutans.

With the higher demand for palm oil, plantations are encroaching on the orangutans' natural habitat and destroying their food sources.

With the health concerns, the demand for palm oil has reached a all time high. This oil can be found in a variety of products such as cookies, crackers, shampoo, beauty products, pet food any many more. There is also ongoing research to find other uses for palm oil. One is the possibility of using it as a fuel alternative. With the demand so high, this oil has become the second most widely produced edible oil.

Palm Oil comes from the fruit of the oil palm tree that grows in a tropical environment, which is also the same habitat as the endangered Sumatran and Bornean orangutans. Research shows us if something doesn't stop the spread of the plantations, the forests will be gone in ten years.

You Can Help!
If you are concerned about the effects of increased palm oil production on orangutan habitat, we suggest you:

• Read product labels. Know which companies use palm oil in their products.
• Educate yourself and everyone you know about the palm tree crisis.
• Write to your favorite companies and supermarkets to educate them on the importance of using certified sustainable palm oil when it becomes available, and/or ask them to avoid using palm oil.
• Try to avoid wood products, such as furniture and picture frames, made from teak, ebony, sandalwood, ironwood or mahogany.