In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the choices we make regarding our dietary habits, including the type of cooking oils we use. Cold pressed oil and regular or normal oil are two terms that often come up in discussions about healthier alternatives. In this article, we will explore the key differences between cold pressed oil and normal oil, considering extraction methods, nutrient contents, shelf life, flavour, and aroma.
What is Cold Pressed Oil?
Cold pressed oil is a type of oil that is extracted from seeds or nuts using a hydraulic press without the use of heat. The term “cold pressed” signifies that the temperature during the extraction process is kept below 50 degrees Celsius, preserving the oil’s natural flavour, aroma, and nutritional value. This method ensures that the oil retains its original qualities, making it a popular choice among health-conscious consumers.
What is Normal Oil?
Regular or normal oil, on the other hand, refers to oils that are extracted using conventional methods, which may involve high temperatures and chemical processes. These methods often include refining, bleaching, and deodorising to produce a more neutral flavour and increase shelf life. The heat applied in the extraction process, however, leads to the loss of some essential nutrients and alters the oil’s original characteristics.
Difference Between the Cold Pressed Oil and Normal Oil:
1. Extraction Methods:
Extraction methods play a crucial role in determining the quality and characteristics of oils. Cold pressed oil is extracted without the use of heat, employing a hydraulic press to ensure minimal damage to the oil’s natural properties. This gentle extraction process helps retain a higher level of nutrients, antioxidants, and beneficial compounds, making cold pressed oil a popular choice for those seeking a more wholesome option. In contrast, normal oil undergoes extraction using conventional methods that often involve high temperatures and chemical processes. While these methods may increase shelf life and produce a more neutral flavour, the heat applied during extraction can lead to the loss of some essential nutrients and antioxidants, resulting in a reduction in nutritional value.
2. Nutrient Contents:
Considering nutrient contents, cold pressed oil stands out for its ability to preserve a rich profile of nutrients, antioxidants, and beneficial compounds. The absence of heat during extraction ensures that these elements remain intact, contributing to the potential health benefits associated with cold pressed oils. On the other hand, regular oil may experience a decrease in nutrient content and antioxidants due to the refining process. The refining process involves steps such as bleaching and deodorising, which can strip the oil of some of its nutritional value.
3. Shelf Life:
Shelf life is another factor differentiating the two types of oils. Cold pressed oil generally has a shorter shelf life because it retains natural compounds that may contribute to quicker oxidation. This makes it imperative for consumers to store cold pressed oils properly to maintain their freshness and prevent rancidity. In contrast, regular or normal oil tends to have a longer shelf life. The refining process employed in the production of regular oil removes impurities and stabilises the oil, contributing to its ability to withstand a more extended period on the shelf without deterioration.
4. Flavour and Aroma:
Flavour and aroma are critical considerations for many consumers when choosing cooking oils. Cold pressed oil stands out for maintaining the original flavour and aroma of the seeds or nuts from which it is derived. In contrast, regular oil may have a milder flavour and aroma. The refining process aims to produce a more neutral product, making it suitable for those who prefer a less pronounced taste in their cooking.
Heat-Exposed/Expeller-Based Oils:
Extraction Process:
Heat-exposed or expeller-based extraction involves the use of mechanical expellers or screw presses to extract oil from seeds, nuts, or fruits. Unlike cold pressing, this method generates heat during the extraction process, and temperatures can rise significantly.
Nutrient Impact:
The higher temperatures associated with heat-exposed extraction may lead to some loss of heat-sensitive nutrients in the oil. While expeller-based oils still contain valuable components, the nutrient content might be slightly lower compared to their cold pressed counterparts.
Flavour and Aroma:
The flavour and aroma of heat-exposed/expeller-based oils can be influenced by the elevated temperatures during extraction. While these oils still retain their essential characteristics, the impact of heat may result in a slightly altered taste compared to cold pressed oils.
Understanding Smoke Points:
The smoke point is the temperature at which an oil begins to break down and produce visible smoke. Using an oil beyond its smoke point can lead to unpleasant flavours, loss of nutritional value, and the release of potentially harmful compounds. Let’s explore the different smoke points of various oils and how this knowledge can enhance your culinary experience.
1. Coconut Oil:
Coconut oil has a medium to high smoke point, making it versatile for various cooking methods. It’s well-suited for sautéing, frying, and baking. It has a smoke point of approximately 177-204°C.
2. Mustard Oil:
Mustard oil has a high smoke point, making it suitable for deep frying and stir-frying. It has a smoke point of approximately 250°C.
3. Sweet Almond Oil:
Sweet almond oil has a low smoke point, making it unsuitable for high-temperature cooking. It’s better suited for drizzling over salads or for use in low-heat recipes. It has a smoke point of approximately 220°C.
4. Castor Oil:
Castor oil is not recommended for cooking due to its low smoke point. It is primarily used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes. Using it for cooking can lead to the breakdown of beneficial compounds and the development of an unpleasant taste.
5. Olive Oil:
Extra virgin olive oil has a lower smoke point, suitable for low to medium-heat cooking. It’s best used for sautéing and light frying (approximately 160-190°C). Regular olive oil or other oils with higher smoke points are preferable for high-temperature cooking.
6. Blackseed Oil:
Blackseed oil has a low to medium smoke point. It’s not recommended for cooking at high temperatures. Instead, use it as a finishing oil for salads, dips, or other dishes.
7. Flaxseed Oil:
Flaxseed oil has a very low smoke point and is unsuitable for cooking. Heating flaxseed oil can lead to the breakdown of its nutritional benefits.
8. Sesame Oil:
Sesame oil has a medium to high smoke point, depending on whether it’s light or dark. It has a smoke point of approximately 177-232°C.
9. Apricot Oil:
Apricot oil has a low to medium smoke point, making it suitable for light sautéing or as a salad dressing (approximately 190-205°C). It’s valued for its mild, slightly nutty flavour and is often used in recipes that don’t require high heat.
10. Walnut Oil:
Walnut oil has a low to medium smoke point, making it unsuitable for high-temperature cooking (approximately 160-204°C).
Comparing Smoke Points:
– Oils with high smoke points (e.g. mustard oil and coconut oil) are suitable for deep frying and high-temperature cooking.
– Oils with low smoke points (e.g sweet almond oil, flaxseed oil) are better suited for drizzling, salads, or as finishing oils.
Which is Better : Cold Pressed or Others?
The choice between cold pressed oil and other oils depends on individual preferences, dietary requirements, and health goals. While cold pressed oil offers a more natural and nutrient-rich option, regular oil may be preferred for its longer shelf life and milder taste. It’s essential to consider personal health priorities and cooking needs when making this decision.
Cold pressed oil stands out as a superior choice due to its extraction process, which preserves more nutrients and maintains a higher level of natural goodness. For those prioritising health and seeking a more wholesome option, cold pressed oil emerges as the clear winner. It’s a choice that aligns with personal health priorities and culinary requirements, ensuring a healthier and more nutritious cooking experience.
The Takeaway:
Khalispur offers a wide range of cold pressed oils that ensure 100% natural oils made from the cold-pressed extraction and preserving the nutrient contents, flavour, aroma of the oils. Try our organic products and there shall be no looking back for you! We assure you, whether you are weight-watchers, wanting to lose that extra fat, are on the lookout for that skincare therapy or just aiming to maintain a healthier lifestyle, Khalispur has got you covered every step of the way. Our cold pressed oils not only lead you to a healthier lifestyle but also promote a healthy, radiant-looking skin.
