What is vegetable oil?
A vegetable oil is a fatty substance extracted from an oilseed plant product whose seeds, nuts or fruits contain lipids (fat).
Vegetable oils offer a very wide range of properties which can be exploited in "In" or "Out", as in In & Out . They are made up of nutrients and active ingredients.
The richness of these oils depends on the plant itself, its cultivation method but also its extraction method.
What we see most often is the “first cold pressed” indication on products.
What is first cold pressing?
At the heart of our well-being, vegetable oils play a major role. However, not all oils are created equal. Today we are going to delve into the fascinating world of oil obtained by first cold pressing.
It is the oldest and only extraction method used that guarantees the cleanliness, purity and preservation of the extracted vegetable oil and presents a more natural color and flavor.
The first cold pressing does not involve heat or additives. This allows the essential nutrients of the vegetable oil to be preserved (essential fatty acids, vitamins, sterols, etc.) and thus its active ingredients, and therefore its benefits.
The first cold pressing is a mechanical process at room temperature.
The process is done as follows:
It is initiated by the preparation of the seeds.
Impurities are removed from the seeds by suction of air. To facilitate the extraction of the oil, the seeds are pre-treated by being hulled. They are finally ready to be extracted.
Extraction by pressure can finally begin.
The seeds will be inserted into a hydraulic press at room temperature until it expels all its juice . The liquid thus collected then rests to be decanted . This is how water (the aqueous phase) and oil (organic phase) separate.
This process makes it possible to obtain a very pure oil containing no foreign substances.
Vegetable oils, obtained from olive, coconut, sunflower and hazelnuts for example, are full of essential fatty acids, antioxidants and nutrients. The first cold pressing process produces a high quality virgin oil that retains all these precious nutrients
However, this method does not remove all of the oil from the seeds. In fact, only 9 to 20% of oil is obtained, which explains why first-pressed oils are more expensive than oils obtained by extraction using solvents.
When these criteria are specified on the label, you have in your hands an oil of excellent quality.
The benefits of oil obtained by first cold pressing
A vegetable oil extracted by first cold pressing, such as hemp oil , is a rich source of vitamin E. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps prevent oxidation , thereby protecting the oil from spoilage and extending its shelf life .
Now let's talk about the benefits of hemp oil and camelina oil. Both of these oils are rich in essential fatty acids , including saturated and oleic fatty acids . These fatty acids play a crucial role in cardiovascular health, helping to keep the heart healthy.
In cosmetics, hemp oil is widely used to treat dry skin . Thanks to its composition rich in fatty acids , it deeply hydrates the skin and maintains its water balance . As for camelina oil, it is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids , which makes it an excellent choice for seasoning salads and cooked dishes.
It is important to note that refining oils can alter their quality. Refining can cause a loss of some essential nutrients and affect the taste and color of the oil. This is why, when purchasing oils, it is best to choose cold-pressed and unrefined oils, in order to fully benefit from their benefits.
Sesame oil, for example, is another valuable oil obtained by first cold pressing. It is not only delicious as a seasoning, but is also known for its cosmetic properties and health benefits. Indeed, sesame oil is rich in saturated fatty acids, which contributes to its oxidation stability . It is also an excellent source of vitamin E, which enhances its antioxidant properties.
It is essential to understand that not all oils are equal . Extraction and processing methods can have a significant impact on the quality and benefits of the oil. When choosing oils for your diet or skin care, always choose oils obtained by first cold pressing and not refined . Not only do they taste richer and more natural , but they are also more nutritious and beneficial for your health.