Wild sunflowers have many flowers or heads and require insects for the pollination of the flowers. These wild sunflowers are the genetic basis of today's commercial sunflowers, which have only one flower or head per plant and may not require the help of insects in pollinating the flower. There are two types of sunflowers grown commercially in the United States - oilseed and confectionery. Oilseed Sunflowers - Oilseed sunflowers produce small black seeds that are very high in oil content. Sunflower oil has a light color, a low level of saturated fats, a neutral taste, and is able to withstand high cooking temperatures.
Sunflower oil is the preferred cooking oil in many countries around the world.
The small black seeds of oilseed sunflowers are also a favorite with the birds. Sunflower seeds are high in energy and provide many of the nutrients that most wild birds need. Machines called impact dehullers also removed the hulls of these sunflower seeds. Sunflower kernels are used a variety of food products from snacks to breads.