What is Cold Pressed Oils?
Did you know that the difference in oil extraction methods makes a world of difference to its quality? Very few of us look at the details of the oils we purchase, and we consider those details too small. However, I will give you reasons why you should, from now on, consider the method of extraction of the oils you take home.
Oil is extracted in different ways, but cold pressed oils are known to retain most of their nutritive and medicinal value as they were in the seed or fruit. Cold pressed oils are therefore considered very valuable food from antiquity.
Cold pressing involves forcing out the oil from the seed or nut by crushing it. These seeds or nuts are dropped in a cylinder that contains rotating screw, this screw grinds the nuts till the oil is extracted. There is some production of heat during the process due to friction, but it is usually not enough to damage the oil.
With the industrial revolution came new methods of oil extraction which include heating and washing with petroleum solvent. This led to cheaper oils in the market which were no longer as nutritious as the cold pressed oils.
Why you should consider using cold pressed oils?
- They are rich in healthy antioxidants. These antioxidants are useful in fighting harmful free radicals and prevent tumors. The antioxidants are easily destroyed by heat if it is used during extraction.
- Cold pressed coconut oil contains lauric acid which is useful in fighting harmful pathogens. This is a compound that is also found in breast milk
- Cold pressed olive oil contains high amounts of Vitamin E, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties. It is also rich in oleic acid, which is key to strengthening the immune system.
- Cold pressed groundnut oil has heart protecting abilities, plus vitamins and minerals. It is also rich in niacin that helps stabilize blood sugars.
Using cold pressed oils eliminates the harmful effects that arise as a result of using conventional oil extraction methods. The biggest challenge with cold pressed oils is their short shelf life. It is, therefore, advisable to buy the oil in small quantities and store it in airtight containers. Also, keep it away from light and consume within three months of purchase.
What are the uses for cold pressed oils?
- They can be used for cooking
- Sesame, sunflower, coconut, and canola oils can be used to flavor salad dressings and marinades
- In aromatherapy and cosmetic products, cold pressed jojoba, rosehip, or almond oils are used.
- Evening primrose and flaxseed oil are sold as dietary supplements
- Cold pressed neem oil can be used as a safe biopesticide. It repels insects without harming plants, animals or the environment.
It is important to note that cooking with cold pressed oils offers a richer flavor, but some of these oils do not react well with heat. For example, sesame oil is rich in unsaturated fats and is likely to degrade when heated. The unsaturated oils break down when used to stir-fry or sauté food, and they are recommended for drizzling over the finished product.
If the oil is rich in saturated fats like olive oil, it can handle higher temperatures used in sautéing and grilling.
As you purchase the cold pressed oils, look for organically sourced oils which are free from pesticides so as to reap all the benefits of cold pressing.
