Ever wonder how much oil one mill can produce? The answer lies within the walls of the Ölmühle Sels. This mill stands as a testament to German industry. It has a rich history in Neuss.
The Ölmühle Sels was founded in 1890 by brothers Otto and Ludwig Sels. Back then it was the first business in the Neuss harbor. Today, the company is known as O. & L. Sels GmbH & Co. KG. It remains a family-run operation. The fourth generation now leads the charge.
Initially located in Heerdt, the Ölmühle Sels quickly became a crucial part of the local economy. In 1923 the delivery of oilseeds arrived in sacks by ship. They were transported via the Rhine. By 1930, oil barrels were delivered using the company’s own vehicles.
In 1938, an extraction plant was installed. It helped increase oil yield. World War II caused damage. This reduced production capacity from 1944 onwards.
The Ölmühle Sels has seen significant growth over the years. A seed silo was built in 1970. It held 25,000 tons. In 1987, SELS OEL + FETT GMBH & CO. KG was founded. This subsidiary packs products for retail. The seed silos were expanded in 1992. Their capacity rose to 40,000 tons.
The mill has faced its share of challenges. A production hall caught fire on August 13, 2000. Another fire disrupted production in early August 2022.
The Ölmühle Sels can process up to 500,000 tons of oilseeds each year. It handles both soy and rapeseed. Today, it focuses on rapeseed oil and rapeseed meal production. Soybeans are no longer processed due to genetic modification concerns. Genetically modified soy is not approved in the EU.
This mill employs about 100 people. This includes staff at the subsidiary in Düsseldorf.
Ölmühle Sels also battled odor issues. A 2004 study found odors exceeded standards. The company invested approximately 5 million euros in 2007. This investment was for odor control. Biofilters and exhaust air combustion systems were installed.
Ölmühle Sels produces oils and fats under the Selsana brand. It also fills customer orders. These include orders for Metro AG and Rewe. The largest sales come from containers for gastronomy. These are often for bulk consumers. Besides rapeseed oil, sunflower oil and palm fat are processed. SELS OEL + FETT GmbH is a member of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil.
The Ölmühle Sels stands as a symbol of tradition. It shows innovation. The mill continues to adapt. It meets modern demands while keeping its values. It remains a vital part of the Neuss industrial landscape.