Origins of Cold Pressed oil can be traced backed to the Indus Valley Civilization. Charred sesame seeds and oil-pressing machines were found in the ruins of Harappa and were dated to be 5000 years old. Indian colloquial words such as “Ghani”, “Chekku” and “Kolhu” are used as synonyms for cold-pressed oils.
Cold-pressed oils are rich in essential fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamin E, vitamin K, vitamin C, and other healthy fats as they preserve the potent nutrients of their ingredients and maintain their natural form. Thus, consumption of cold-pressed oils is considered safe and healthy, especially for people with chronic disorders. Excessive heat destroys the potent compounds of the seeds or nuts while processing and the further treatment of hot-pressed oils with chemicals such as acetic acid, hexane, and bleaching soda destroys all the nutrients. While consuming cold-pressed oils can protect the heart by reducing bad cholesterol and blood pressure levels, intake of refined oils in everyday diet can increase the risk of strokes and heart attack significantly.
The right selection of oil for cooking can help to reduce the risk of coronary heart diseases, responsible for high mortality rates across the world. The secret to choosing the right oil lies in how the oil is actually prepared from its source. The input materials and techniques used to press the oil have a direct influence on the properties of the oil, which in turn determines our cholesterol levels upon its consumption.
The method of extracting oil makes all the difference to its quality and flavour. The extraction process of cold-pressed oils involves crushing oil-bearing nuts or seeds under pressure using low heating methods. Generally, the seeds are placed in a huge cylinder where they are continuously rotated and crushed until all the oil is collected. Since the process does not involve an excess amount of heat or chemical solvents, cold-pressed oils retain their original flavor, taste, aroma, and nutritional value.
The method of extracting oil makes all the difference to its quality and flavour. The extraction process of cold-pressed oils involves crushing oil-bearing nuts or seeds under pressure using low heating methods. Generally, the seeds are placed in a huge cylinder where they are continuously rotated and crushed until all the oil is collected. Since the process does not involve an excess amount of heat or chemical solvents, cold-pressed oils retain their original flavor, taste, aroma, and nutritional value.