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Wood pressing of oil seeds is an ancient technique wherein oils are derived from seeds or nuts using a method that involves minimal heat, ensuring the preservation of the oil’s natural flavor, aroma, and nutritional qualities. These oils are esteemed for their authenticity and rich profile of nutrients. Common examples include Groundnut oil, Sesame oil, Coconut oil, and Mustard oil. Wood pressed oils are now becoming the natural choice over refined oils for a large number of families considering the array of benefits offered by use of Wood pressed oils.
Detailed process of Wood-press extraction:
Wood press oil extraction involves several steps:
Cleaning: Remove any debris, dirt, or foreign materials from the seeds to ensure a cleaner extraction process.
Crushing/Grinding and Pressing: Crush or grind the dried seeds into a coarse powder in a wooden press. This increases the surface area, facilitating oil extraction. The seed material is further pressed, where pressure is applied to extract oil.
Separation: The extracted oil, along with some fine suspended particles, is obtained. Separation methods, such as settling is used to isolate the oil from the remaining solids.
Filtering: To improve oil purity, the extracted oil may be further filtered to remove any remaining impurities or particulate matter.
Storage: Store the filtered oil in food-grade and airtight containers to maintain its quality.
Highlights Of Wood Pressed Oil
No Heat or Chemicals: Wood pressed oils are not subjected to high temperatures during the entire process of oil extraction which results in preserving the oil’s natural qualities including flavors, and nutritional content. Additionally, there is no use of chemical solvents or additives in the extraction making it a natural and pure option.
Nutrition Content: Wood-pressed oils retains the essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These nutrients offer a lot of health benefits.
Flavor and Aroma: Wood-pressed oils have their distinct and rich flavors. As the extraction of the oil is without heat and zero chemical treatment, the natural flavors and aromas of the seeds, nuts, or fruits are retained thereby giving authentic taste.
Versatile Usage: Suitable for various culinary applications, from salad dressings to sautéing, these oils add depth and nutritional value to a wide range of dishes.
Health Considerations: Wood-pressed oils have minimal processing and higher nutrient content. Along these lines, they are better options in contrast to refined oils. The presence of antioxidants and monounsaturated fats in certain wood-pressed oils can contribute to heart health, better skin texture and overall well-being.
Sustainability: Many Wood-pressed oils are sourced from sustainable practices, supporting environmentally friendly and ethical production.
Popular Types of Wood Pressed Oils
1.Wood-Pressed Groundnut Oil: Renowned for its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and distinctive flavor. Ideal for frying purposes without compromising the nutritional value due to its high smoke point.
2. Wood-Pressed Coconut Oil: Known for its versatility, coconut oil adds a mild, nutty flavor to both cooking and baking. It contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) associated with various health benefits.
3. Wood-Pressed Mustard Oil: Packed with essential fatty acids, mustard oil supports hair health. The known antibacterial and antimicrobial properties of mustard oil, benefits the skin.
4. Wood-Pressed Sesame Oil: A staple in Asian cuisine, sesame oil imparts a robust flavor. It’s commonly used for stir-frying and as a finishing oil for added depth.
5. Wood-Pressed Sunflower Oil: This Vitamin A and Vitamin E rich oil help in promoting skin health. It helps the skin cells to regenerate and prevent acne.
Incorporating wood pressed oils into your culinary repertoire not only enhances flavor but also aligns with a commitment to natural, nutrient-dense ingredients.
The Bitter Truth of Refined oil
Refining of oils include processes like chemical extraction by solvents like hexane, neutralization by acid and alkali treatment and polishing of oil by bleaching the oil. This leads to an oil that is deficient of natural flavors and nutrients.
Trans fats: The liquid oil formed is hydrogenated at high temperatures and it turns fats rancid, creating free radicals that cause heart disease and breast cancer, colon cancer. It is also considered as one of the factors responsible for weight gain.
Additives and preservatives: The excessive amounts of addictive substances and preservatives in refined oil processing make it terrifying. It contains artificial flavors, emulsifiers and synthetic vitamins. This makes it difficult for the human body to digest and absorb.
An unbalanced ratio of omega-6 and omega-3: Necessary for brain development and health, hormone production, nervous system health, performance, cell health, and more. Its full consumption ratio is 1:4 to 1:2, Unfortunately, refined oils contain ratios close to 20:1. Excessive amounts of omega-6 can cause several health conditions such as cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, cardiovascular disease, and arthritis.
