De-oiling separates the crude oil from the meal, and both these two raw materials can be processed in many ways. Refining of the crude oil leads to refined oil and also fatty acids, as well as lecithines, sterols and tocoperols as by-products. The refined oil can be subjected to a transesterification process, in order to form biodiesel or glycerine: these then may be further treated chemically to create downstream products.
The other stream, the meal, is treated by processes such as extraction (for example to obtain protein or minor components) and fermentation. Final products can be isolated proteins, polyphenols, phytates, polysaccharides and lactic acid. Residues such as Lignins can be further used, others can still deliver thermal energy.