When it comes to choosing the right cooking oil, we often look at the brand, price, or whether it’s refined or not. But have you ever considered how that oil was extracted? The method of oil extraction plays a big role in its nutritional value, aroma, and health benefits. Let’s take a closer look at the three major oil extraction methods: Cold Pressed, Hot Pressed, and Wood Pressed — and help you decide which one is best for your lifestyle.
What is Cold Pressed Oil?
Cold pressed oil is extracted by pressing oil seeds at low temperatures (usually below 50°C). The process avoids using heat or chemicals, which helps retain most of the oil's nutrients and natural flavor.
Pros:
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Retains natural aroma and nutrients
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Contains antioxidants and vitamins
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Ideal for dressings or low-heat cooking
Cons:
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Shorter shelf life
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Not suitable for high-temperature cooking
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Often confused with wood pressed oil
What is Hot Pressed Oil?
Hot pressed oil involves heating the seeds before pressing them. The higher temperature (120°C or more) increases the oil yield but often at the cost of nutritional value.
Pros:
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Longer shelf life
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Better yield, hence cheaper
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Suitable for high-heat cooking
Cons:
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Loses essential nutrients
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May contain chemical residues if refined
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Lacks natural aroma and flavor
What is Wood Pressed Oil?
Wood pressed oil (also known as Lakdi Ghani oil) is an ancient extraction method using a wooden press (usually made of neem or babul wood). It’s a slow process where seeds are crushed at low RPM (rotations per minute), ensuring no heat is generated.
Pros:
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Zero heat extraction retains all nutrients
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Rich in flavor and aroma
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Free from chemicals or refining
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Packed with natural antioxidants
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More stable for cooking compared to cold pressed oils
Cons:
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Slightly more expensive due to traditional methods
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Requires proper storage to avoid spoilage
Why Wood Pressed Oil is Considered Superior
While cold pressed and wood pressed oils may seem similar, wood pressed oils are considered more authentic and nutrient-dense because of the traditional process. The wooden press avoids even minimal heat generation, unlike mechanical cold presses. Plus, wood pressed oils are often extracted in small batches from locally grown, chemical-free seeds — making them a cleaner and more sustainable choice.
Which Oil Should You Choose?
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For everyday cooking, especially Indian dishes, wood pressed oils (like groundnut, mustard, or sesame) offer the perfect balance of health and taste.
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For salads or low-heat recipes, cold pressed oils like olive or flaxseed are great options.
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If you're on a budget and need oil for frying, hot pressed oils can work — though they lack nutritional value.
Final Thoughts
In today’s wellness-focused world, going back to natural and traditional practices can do wonders for your health. Wood pressed oils offer the best of both worlds — nutrition and taste — without any additives or high-heat damage. They may cost a bit more, but the benefits to your heart, digestion, and skin make them well worth it.
So next time you’re picking up a bottle of cooking oil, flip the label and ask yourself — “How was this oil made?” The answer might just change your health for the better.
