From The Food Encyclopedia by Jacques Rolland and Carol Sherman
As essential as a food ingredient as it was a source of light. The ancient Egyptians expressed oil from the radish, while the Hittites are said to have preferred almond oil. Other historical sources of oil include sesame seeds in the Middle East, poppies in Europe, and olives in Crete and Palestine. Many varieties (see box on previous page) are used for cooking and to dress raw foods, such as salads.
