Cold pressing is a traditional physical oil extraction method, with the processing temperature controlled below 60 degrees Celsius throughout the entire process. Different from hot pressing and solvent extraction processes, it does not undergo high-temperature frying or add chemical reagents, maximizing the retention of natural nutrients in oil seeds. This article elaborates on the core nutritional components of cold pressed oil and its practical significance for daily diet.
Cold pressed oil mainly retains nutrients
Unsaturated fatty acids
This is the main nutritional component of vegetable oil, including Omega-3, Omega-6, and Omega-9 series fatty acids. These types of fatty acids cannot be synthesized by the human body and can only be obtained from food. High temperatures can damage its molecular structure, while cold pressing technology can preserve it intact, helping to regulate blood lipids and maintain cardiovascular health.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a natural antioxidant that not only delays the oxidation and deterioration of oils, but also benefits skin care and enhances immunity. This nutrient is not resistant to high temperatures, and the content in hot pressed oil is significantly lost, while cold pressed oil can retain sufficient vitamin E.
phytosterol
Plant sterols can inhibit the absorption of harmful cholesterol in the intestine, and this substance is also not resistant to high temperatures. The content of plant sterols in cold pressed oil is much higher than that in refined oil, and long-term consumption can help optimize human lipid metabolism.
Natural polyphenolic antioxidants
Oilseed contains abundant polyphenolic substances, which can eliminate free radicals and delay the aging of the body. These active ingredients are easily destroyed by high temperatures, and cold pressing can maintain their activity, giving the oil stronger antioxidant capacity while retaining its natural aroma.
Why is the nutrition of cold pressed oil worth paying attention to
Creating a Healthy Diet
Modern diets generally consume large amounts of refined oils and fats, resulting in a single nutrient intake. Nutritious cold pressed oil can supplement the missing active nutrients in ordinary edible oil, suitable for ordinary families, pregnant women, children, and middle-aged and elderly people to consume.
No harmful substances generated
The high-temperature oil production process is prone to generating substances such as trans fatty acids and harmful oxides. The entire cold pressing process operates at low temperatures, and the extraction process does not produce harmful substances, making long-term consumption more reassuring.
Pure flavor, better purity
Without the need for high-temperature stir frying and chemical refining, cold pressed oil retains the delicate aroma of the oil itself, with a clear color and pure texture, especially suitable for cold dishes, salads, low-temperature cooking, and other eating methods.
Cold pressed oil VS other oils and fats
Cold pressed oil: rich in active nutrients, natural flavor, low smoke point, suitable for low-temperature cooking.
Hot pressed oil: Partial loss of nutrients, rich aroma, moderate smoke point, suitable for daily stir frying.
Refined extracted oil: Basic loss of active nutrients, light taste, high smoke point, suitable for high-temperature frying.
Cold pressing is not just a physical oil making process, but also a way to lock in natural nutrients. Although cold pressed oil has a lower oil yield and higher price, its comprehensive nutritional value is irreplaceable. Choosing cold pressed oil means choosing a healthier and more natural way of eating.
