How do cold-pressed oils differ from traditional oils?

Unfortunately, far too few people are still aware of exactly what cold-pressed oils are. For this reason, we would like to explain what cold-pressed oils are, how to use them, and how to put them to practical use in the kitchen and beyond, as they are rich in nutritional properties that are well worth considering in any kitchen.

Cold-pressed oils – what does this mean?

The term ‘cold-pressed’ or ‘cold-extracted’ means that the oil in question has been obtained from the first pressing, without excessive heat or artificial additives (chemicals) that would impair its aroma and properties. The term ‘cold-pressed oil’ refers to oils that have not been heated to a temperature exceeding 40 degrees during the seed pressing process, thereby allowing them to retain their healthy and aromatic qualities. The pressing temperature is the most crucial factor for this type of oil.

Cold-pressed oils have incredible health benefits and retain all their original properties and nutrients, unlike hot-pressed oils. As with one of the most popular oils, namely olive oil, its quality is determined by the method of production, known as extraction. Cold-pressed oils are most commonly produced using a screw press.

Cold-pressing using a screw press involves the use of seeds, fruits, nuts or other whole plants, most often grown using organic methods. Pressed at low temperatures, they are protected from rancidity, trans fatty acids and other chemicals used in the processing. The oils are pressed without additional chemical extraction or solvents, such as hexane, thus retaining their original flavour and nutritional value. For this reason, too, cold-pressed vegetable oils are usually slightly more expensive than other types of oil.

Cold-pressed oils without artificial additives – what are their properties?

As we have already pointed out, cold-pressed oils are obtained through an extremely gentle process involving the extraction of oil from plants without any additional heat treatment. They are generally then filtered and bottled, without further refining. Their significant advantages include, amongst others:

• Preserving the original flavour – naturaloilsthat have not undergone further processing are characterised by a distinct, strongly perceptible flavour; as they are unrefined, they are therefore superior to conventional refined oils.

• They retain vitamins –the plantsfrom which cold-pressed oils are made are natural treasure troves of health-promoting fat-soluble vitamins. Similarly, certain plant compounds are preserved, which may have, amongst other things, antioxidant or anti-inflammatory properties.

• They contain powerful antioxidants –thehighest-quality cold-pressedoilsmay contain more antioxidants than those that have been heat-treated. Scientists believe that these compounds may be partly responsible for the benefits associated with diets that include cold-pressed oils, such as stronger bones and a reduced risk of heart and brain diseases, as well as certain types of cancer (e.g. liver or bowel cancer).

• Rich in unsaturated fats –asthe cold-pressing process is carried out at room temperature, these oils contain significantly more unsaturated fats, which help to lower ‘bad’ cholesterol (LDL), a cause of heart disease.

• Suitable for both cold and hot dishes –comparedwith refined oils, cold-pressed oils are used both in cold dishes (e.g. salad dressings) and to flavour hot dishes and desserts.

Unrefined cold-pressed oils – what are they used for?

Cold-pressed oils are an important component of a balanced diet, as well as in personal care. Cold-pressed oils are not only an effective food supplement but also a skincare product. Where are cold-pressed oils used?

• Cooking – vegetableoilscan be safely added as a dressing to prepared salads, as well as to hot dishes already served on the plate. They work well with dishes typical of the Mediterranean diet, such as fish, pasta, vegetables and fruit.

• Skin and hair care – cold-pressedoilsare interesting additions to skincare products, particularly for dry, sensitive skin that requires constant care. Nourishing and rich in natural health-promoting compounds, these oils improve the health of the scalp and hair when used in oil treatments.

• Massage additive – cold-pressedoilsact as a skin-friendly carrier. When combined with natural essential oils, they can unleash their anti-inflammatory, firming and antioxidant properties, providing relief during massage of irritated, sore areas all over the body.

Unrefined cold-pressed oils – how should they be used?

Cold-pressed oils must not be heated. They are generally not heat-stable and quickly release harmful substances due to the lower temperature required for their oxidation and combustion. Once opened, the oil should be stored in the fridge and consumed within 4 to 6 weeks.

The healthiest and best cold-pressed oils – which ones are we talking about?

Cold-pressed oils can be used in a variety of ways. Each one also has a different flavour and noteworthy properties. Choosing the most interesting cold-pressed oil can be quite a challenge. For this reason, we would like to present a selection of the healthiest cold-pressed oils, which are suitable for everyday use.

• Linseed oil –hasa slightly nutty, grassy and balanced flavour, as well as a high omega-3 content. Due to its flavour, linseed oil is suitable as an unconventional dressing for potatoes, sandwiches, dumplings, salads, meat dishes and many others. Linseed oil can also be eaten straight from a teaspoon.

• Milk thistle oil –relativelylittle known, it is used as a home remedy for bloating and constipation. Milk thistle oil is traditionally used as a salad dressing. It is also useful as a carrier oil for the skin; its abundance of detoxifying substances (e.g. silymarin) means that milk thistle oil is also effective for liver problems.

• Black cumin oil –extractedfrom black cumin seeds – is characterised by a distinctive flavour, described as delicately peppery. It contains vitamins A, B and C, as well as large amounts of folic acid, and has a beneficial effect on the whole body. In cooking, it is used as an ingredient to add a subtle piquancy to dishes. Black cumin oil is sometimes used to support the immune system in both adults and children.

• Evening primrose oil –particularlyrich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially gamma-linolenic acid. In cosmetics, it is suitable for damaged and dry skin, whilst in the kitchen it is used as a dressing for salads and cold dishes – due to evening primrose’s delicate flavour. It contains oleic acid, polyphenols and vitamin E, which help regulate blood circulation and strengthen the heart muscle.

Other popular options include: sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, pumpkin seed oil, poppy seed oil and unrefined coconut oil.

Cold-pressed vegetable oils – how should they be stored?

To preserve the quality of delicate cold-pressed oil, it must be protected from light, oxygen and heat, not only during the pressing and filtering processes. Proper storage plays a key role in ensuring that the oil retains its freshness and original aroma for a long time.

Cold-pressed oils should be stored in dark glass bottles, as clear bottles expose the contents to air and daylight, which trigger a chain reaction leading to the formation of free radicals. For this reason, the oils should be kept in the fridge.

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