Why Wood Cold-Pressed Oils Are Worth the Investment?
About the Author:
Motive Agro Oils Pvt Ltd is a 60-year-old family business of sourcing and crushing native seeds to produce cold-pressed oils. They have served over 5 lakh families with the purest oil. Rhythm is a chemical engineer turned third-generation entrepreneur who has worked in refineries and the preservatives industries for over 8 years. When he joined the business, he saw a massive decline in their sales due to cheaper solvent-based extracted refined oils. People had forgotten the health benefits of cold-pressed oils. His family business’s message of purity was not reaching the consumers, and thus, he decided to launch a D2C cold-pressed oil brand to directly reach and serve the families looking to live happier by eating right. He is on a mission to remove chemicals from his customers’ plates and bring back natural eating.
Introduction
In the ever-evolving landscape of healthy eating and sustainable living, the choice of oils plays a crucial role. Though these oils might come with a higher price tag compared to their refined counterparts, their value justifies the investment. Here’s why these oils are worth every penny.
What Are Wood Cold-Pressed Oils?
Before delving into their benefits, it’s important to understand what makes these oils unique. Wood cold-pressed oils are extracted using traditional methods that involve minimal heat and no chemicals. The process utilises a wooden press or Ghani, which slowly crushes the seeds or nuts to extract oil. This gentle approach helps preserve the oil’s natural nutrients and flavour, setting it apart from oils produced through modern, high-heat methods.
Preservation of Nutrients
One of the primary reasons to invest in this cold-pressed oil is their exceptional nutritional profile. The cold-pressing process operates at low temperatures, typically below 50°C, ensuring that the oil retains its natural vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. For example, extra virgin olive oil, when wood-pressed, maintains high levels of polyphenols and vitamin E, which are crucial for reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
In contrast, oils extracted through high-heat methods or with chemical solvents often lose a significant portion of their nutrients. The elevated temperatures can destroy delicate compounds and diminish the oil’s health benefits. By choosing this cold-pressed oil, you’re ensuring that you receive the maximum nutritional value from your oil.
Enhanced Flavour and Aroma
Wood cold-pressed oils are renowned for their rich, natural flavours and aromas. The traditional extraction method preserves the inherent taste of the seeds or nuts used, resulting in a more authentic and robust flavour profile. For instance, wood-pressed sesame oil has a deep, nutty flavour that enhances dishes with its unique taste. Similarly, cold-pressed coconut oil retains its natural tropical aroma, making it a delightful addition to both sweet and savoury recipes.
The superior flavour and aroma of these oils can elevate your culinary experience, providing a gourmet touch to everyday meals. This enhanced sensory experience is something that processed oils often lack, as they undergo refining that strips away much of their natural character.
Health Benefits
The health benefits of wood cold-pressed oils are well-documented. These oils are rich in essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6, which are crucial for maintaining heart health, supporting brain function, and reducing inflammation. The presence of antioxidants in these oils also contributes to their protective effects against chronic diseases.
For example, wood-pressed flaxseed oil is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Similarly, cold-pressed avocado oil is high in monounsaturated fats, which promote healthy cholesterol levels and support overall cardiovascular health.
Incorporating these oils into your diet can contribute to a well-rounded, health-conscious lifestyle, making them a valuable addition to any kitchen.
No Harmful Chemicals
A significant advantage of wood cold-pressed oils is their purity. The extraction process does not involve the use of chemical solvents, such as hexane, or bleaching agents that are common in refined oils. This means that these pressed oils are free from potentially harmful residues, making them a safer choice for health-conscious consumers.
The absence of chemicals also aligns with the growing demand for natural and organic products, reflecting a commitment to both personal health and environmental sustainability. By choosing these oils, you’re supporting a cleaner, more environmentally friendly approach to oil production.
Sustainable and Traditional Practices
Wood cold-pressed oils are produced using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations. This process is often more sustainable than modern industrial practices, as it requires less energy and minimises waste. Many traditional oil presses operate on a smaller scale, supporting local farmers and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
Investing in these oils supports these traditional practices, which are often more eco-friendly and community-focused than large-scale industrial production. This choice not only benefits your health but also contributes to the preservation of artisanal methods and local economies.
Better Cooking Performance
When it comes to cooking, wood cold-pressed oils often perform better than their refined counterparts. Their high content of natural fats and antioxidants means they are more stable at moderate cooking temperatures, reducing the risk of oxidation and rancidity. This stability makes them suitable for various cooking methods, including sautéing, roasting, and even light frying.
Additionally, the natural flavours of these oils can enhance the taste of your dishes, making them a versatile ingredient in both savoury and sweet recipes. Their ability to add depth and complexity to meals makes them a worthwhile investment for anyone who enjoys cooking.
Long-Term Cost Efficiency
While wood cold-pressed oils may have a higher upfront cost, they often prove to be more cost-efficient in the long run. Their concentrated nutritional value means that you may need to use less oil to achieve the same health benefits compared to refined oils. Additionally, the superior flavour and aroma of these oils can enhance the quality of your cooking, potentially reducing the need for additional flavourings or seasonings.
By investing in these oils, you’re making a choice that pays off not only in terms of health and taste but also in long-term value. Their durability and high quality make them a smart investment for those who prioritise both well-being and culinary excellence.
Which is better, wood cold-pressed oils or refined oils?
Wood cold-pressed oils offer a range of benefits that justify their investment. From preserving essential nutrients and enhancing flavour to supporting traditional practices and ensuring purity, these oils provide exceptional value. Their superior health benefits and sustainable production methods make them a worthwhile choice for anyone seeking to improve their diet and enjoy a higher quality of cooking.
While the initial cost may be higher, the long-term benefits of wood cold-pressed oils—ranging from better health to improved culinary experiences—make them a smart investment for those committed to a healthier, more flavorful lifestyle. By choosing these oils, you’re not only enhancing your own well-being but also supporting sustainable practices and preserving time-honoured traditions.
Good Nature specialises in high-quality, cold-pressed oils that are 100% pure and free from additives. Sourced responsibly, their oils retain maximum nutrition and natural flavour, making them an excellent choice for cooking or skincare.
Emphasising purity and sustainability, Good Nature ensures each bottle offers the wholesome benefits of cold-pressing methods. Their products support a healthier lifestyle by preserving the natural goodness of the seeds and nuts used.
