People are becoming increasingly mindful of the food they eat and their health. Cold pressed oil is one of the most natural and nutrient-rich cooking oils available today, and its use has become incredibly popular in recent years. But how do you select the best cold pressed oil? In order to decide which oil is right for cooking, it's important to understand how it is made and why it's more expensive than refined oils.

The extraction process of cold pressed oils is simple and traditional. It involves pressing seeds, such as sunflower, sesame, or flax, until the oil is extracted. This process does not involve any heat or chemicals as is typically used in the refinement of other types of oils. The result of the cold press is a pure, unrefined oil that maintains its flavorful complexity and valuable nutrients.

Refined oils have a longer shelf life than cold pressed oils and are also much cheaper. But while this may be advantageous in the short term, one should consider the nutritional loss that comes from refining the oil. Cold pressed oils have more flavor and catch more of the healthy antioxidants, vitamins, fatty acids, and enzymes found in the seed. They also tend to be lower in calories.

Naturally, cold pressed oils come at a higher price than the refined variety. This is because of the extra costs involved with low-temperature pressing and more complicated seed-sourcing practices. However, with careful research, you should be able to track down an affordable source. When choosing a cold pressed oil, look for certifications ensuring quality and purity and make sure to check if the oil was stored properly.

The selection of cold pressed oils is growing and the options are vast. Now that you understand how they are made and the difference between cold pressed and refined oils, you can make an informed decision when selecting the right oil for your cooking. Choose a good, high-quality oil and the delicious flavors in your favorite dishes will be sure to shine!