When you delve into the world of cold pressed oils, you discover a treasury of natural, nutrient-rich elixirs capable of transforming your health and beauty routines. With potent benefits for skin, hair, and overall wellness, this article will discuss what cold pressed oil is, its history, its production process, and why it deserves a place in your health and beauty regime!
What is cold pressed oil and how is it made?
Cold pressed oil* is oil that has been extracted using a method known as 'cold pressing,' which involves pressing a base ingredient without applying heat or chemicals. This method, often used with oil seeds, kernels, fruits, and other natural products, involves grinding the ingredient to a paste, then mechanically pressing it to extract the oil.
The entire process is performed at a low temperature to ensure the oil stays below a certain heat point, maintaining its nutritional profile, flavour, and aroma. Because of this natural and non-invasive extraction process, cold pressed oils retain a richer nutrient content and more authentic flavour compared to oils produced through traditional heat-extraction methods, making them a preferred choice for health-conscious consumers and gourmet cooks alike.
The history of cold pressed oil
Although cold pressing might sound like a premium or specialised oil extraction method, in fact, forms of it have been in use for thousands of years. Heat- or chemical-intensive methods are actually more recent innovations. Evidence of rudimentary pressing techniques, akin to cold pressing, can be traced back to present-day Israel and Jordan, where olive oil was produced as early as 6,000 BC using mechanical methods.
Over time, oil extraction methods evolved and became more varied across different cultures. The Romans, for instance, built complex mechanical presses to mass-produce oil. Meanwhile, in India and China, techniques similar to what we now refer to as 'cold pressing' became central to oil production.
With the onset of the Industrial Revolution, new oil production methods were developed, such as chemical solvent extraction and heat extraction. While these techniques boosted yield and efficiency, they often compromised the nutritional value and flavour profiles of the oils.
From the late 20th century to the present day, awareness of the drawbacks associated with industrial production methods has grown. As people become increasingly health-conscious, cold pressed oils are often viewed as a premium product. In reality, this method of extraction harkens back to the very beginnings of oil production!
What are the benefits of cold pressed oil?
There are numerous benefits to using cold pressed oils as opposed to industrial-produced oils. These include:
Cold pressed oils are rich in nutrients
When seeds, fruits, or kernels are subjected to heat, their structure can degrade or dissolve, potentially diminishing the vital nutrients found in the base ingredient. Cold pressing, however, is carried out at room temperature, offering the most natural and non-intrusive way to extract oil without risking the loss of these nutrients.
Cold pressed oils have a superior flavour and aroma profile
Heat and chemicals can also compromise the natural taste and aroma of the ingredients. By preserving the original compounds, cold pressing delivers oils with stronger, more authentic flavours and aromas.
Cold pressed oils have a healthier fatty acid profile
Cold pressed oils typically have a healthier balance of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids and are richer in unsaturated fats. This balance is linked to a range of health benefits, including improved heart health and reduced inflammation.
Cold pressed oils are better for your skin and your hair
The high nutrient content in cold pressed oils makes them ideal for use in natural beauty products. They can moisturise, aid in skin's natural ageing process, and contribute to better hair and skin health, outperforming many industrially produced oils.
Cold pressed oils are more environmentally friendly
Finally, a broader benefit of cold-pressed oils lies in their environmental footprint. The production process is significantly eco-friendlier than heat or chemical extraction methods, as it doesn't produce chemical waste and requires less energy, making it a more sustainable choice.
Cold pressed oils from Statfold
Are you interested in learning more about our cold pressed oil offerings? If you’re a business owner looking to incorporate cold pressed oils into your product range, then look no further than Statfold Natural products. We can help you design and manufacture your new cold-pressed oil range, with our team of experts providing valuable input on your choice of ingredients and recipe based on your brand needs and expectations. Call us on 01827 830 871 or get in touch via our enquiry form – we’d love to hear from you!
*Please note that the term 'cold pressed' is not regulated in all countries, meaning oils labelled as such may not have been produced using the traditional cold pressing method. We encourage you to research individual brands and their extraction methods for verification.