Beyond Refined: Your Guide to India's Top Cold-Pressed Oils, Featuring Virgin Coconut Oil
Among a range of essential cold-pressed oils, Virgin Coconut Oil stands out as one of the versatile powerhouses offering a range of benefits.
Did you ever give a thought to whether the oil in which you cook your food, can actually boost your health, rather than just adding flavor to your food? In India, a country rooted in traditional wisdom and a growing focus on wellness, how can there be a significant resurgence of interest in using cold-pressed oils?
Well, cold-pressed oils are essentially extracted using a natural and minimal heat method, which ensures that the oils retain their inherent goodness, rich aroma, and authentic taste, as well as a power-packed punch of vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids. Hence, such a rising demand for cold-pressed oils highlights that people are more interested in shifting towards purity and resorting to healthier, and natural cooking practices.
Today, the shelves of convenience stores are all filled up with a variety of oils, but people are still seeking out the best cold-pressed oils in India, with a particular spotlight on virgin coconut oil as it comes with its unique composition and an extensive array of health benefits.
Difference Between Cold-Pressed and Refined Oils
Well, the distinction between cold-pressed oils and refined oils basically lies in their extraction process that impacts their nutritional content, flavor profile, as well as overall health benefits. Let’s have a deep understanding of each of them so that an informed decision can be made.
Cold-pressed oils are basically a testament to those traditional extraction methods, which are often also referred to by terms like “Kacchi Ghani” or “Wood Pressed” in India. The process involved in the extraction of cold-pressed oil involves crushing and pressing the oil seeds, nuts, and even fruits, but at a very low temperature, typically below 50°.
Moreover, cold-pressed oils are extracted using the gentle, friction-based method, which in turn ensures that they retain their natural integrity. And that is why, cold-pressed oils are rich in original nutrients such as vitamins (E, B1, B6, and B12), antioxidants (carotenoids, polyphenols), and also in essential fatty acids (MUFA, FUFA) that are sensitive to heat.
On the contrary, refined oils undergo an extensive industrial process that is designed in order to maximize the oil yield, create a neutral flavor, and appearance as well and extend the shelf life. The extraction of refined oils involves a multi-step process that involves high heat, often exceeding 200°.
Why are Cold-Pressed Oils Gaining Popularity in India?
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Growing Health Consciousness Among Consumers
One of the main reasons why there has been a rising demand among consumers for cold-pressed oils is that they are becoming more aware of health and nutrition. Moreover, people nowadays are becoming more and more educated about the adverse effects of consuming processed foods and also about the pros of consuming a balanced diet. As refined oils are associated with chemical treatments and high temperatures during the extraction process, it is often viewed with skepticism about the loss of vital nutrients. That is why cold-pressed oils are perceived as a healthier alternative, as it is free from any kind of harmful additives.
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Superior Nutritional Value and Retention
There is a gentler extraction method that is used for the cold-pressed oils, and hence this is key to their nutritional supremacy. Cold-pressed oils ensure that the essential nutrients in it remain intact, including a higher concentration of natural antioxidants like crucial polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, Vitamin E which acts as a natural protector against inflammation and cell damage.
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Authentic Flavour and Aroma Enhancement
Apart from all the health benefits posed by cold-pressed oils, they even offer a culinary advantage as they retain the natural flavor and aroma of the seeds from which they are extracted. No matter if it is the pungent kick of the mustard oil, the nutty richness of the groundnut oil, or even the subtle sweetness of the virgin coconut oil. In simple words, such a sensory experience is truly valued in Indian cuisine.
Top 4 Best Cold Pressed Oils in India
The market of cold-pressed oils has been flourishing in India, and among many, Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) stands out as one of the highly sought-after and a versatile option. Virgin coconut oil is deeply rooted in Indian households and hence what makes it truly versatile is its natural extraction process, typically from fresh coconut milk without any kind of heat or chemicals. This in turn ensures that the nutritional richness and inherent purity in it are truly preserved. Additionally, virgin coconut oil is truly a powerhouse of external applications, its antimicrobial and moisturizing properties make it an excellent choice for supporting hair and skin health.
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Cold Pressed Sesame Oil
Well, cold-pressed sesame oil, also popularly known as “Til ka tel” in the Indian tradition and Ayurveda, is basically known for its numerous health benefits and its nutty flavor. Moreover, it is basically extracted from sesame seeds without the usage of heat, retaining its natural integrity. Historically, sesame oil was popularly known as the go-to choice for cooking across India, making it surprisingly good for deep frying, and sauteing. Moreover, sesame oil is also popularly lauded for promoting oral hygiene. It is believed that swishing sesame oil in the mouth would detoxify, and reduce the harmful bacteria, ultimately supporting the gum health, making it an effective addition for supporting daily wellness routine.
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Cold Pressed Mustard Oil
Cold pressed mustard oil, also known as “Sarson ka tel” is a quintessential cooking oil that is deeply lauded for its culinary and wellness traditions in India. Moreover, mustard oil has been highly priced for its remarkable health-promoting properties, acting as a natural immunity booster, and at the same time processing antibacterial properties, helping in fighting off various illnesses. Not just this, its unique composition of omega-3 fatty acids is essential for heart health, reducing inflammation, and supporting overall well-being.
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Cold Pressed Olive Oil
Unlike ample traditional Indian oils, cold-pressed olive oil is imported, which in turn positions it as one of the most premium and expensive options. The cold pressing method for extracting the olive oil includes crushing wolves without the heat, further ensuring that the oil retains its vibrant green hue, strong nutritional profile, and fruity aroma. On the other hand, olive oil is being celebrated as one of the most excellent sources of monounsaturated fats which are widely recognized for their heart health benefits. Additionally, cold-pressed olive oil is the best option for salads, and also one of the best oils for a perfect drizzling over finished dishes.
Conclusion
Cold-pressed oils offer a multitude of culinary as well as health benefits. In simple words, cold-pressed oils preserve vital nutrients such as vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids, ultimately contributing to enhanced immunity, improved metabolism, as well as better overall well-being. Among a range of essential cold-pressed oils, Virgin Coconut Oil stands out as one of the versatile powerhouses offering a range of benefits.
So, make the healthy switch today! Explore a wide range of the best cold-pressed oils in India and nourish your body the natural way!
