The food industry offers a wide range of oils, but not all of them are safe for health. The refined oils we use in cooking and industry often contain trans fats, substances that can have negative effects on our bodies.
Refined oils containing trans fats are potentially dangerous to health. These substances can lead to serious problems including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer. We can significantly improve our health by replacing highly volatile oils, with natural and healthy analogues such as cedar nut oil. Cedar nut oil is not only delicious, but also healthy, making it a safe choice for the diet.
Refined oil production process
The first step in refined oil production is to extract the oil from the seed or fruit. This process may involve the use of a toxic solvent, hexane. Hexane, while effective for oil extraction, is highly toxic and can remain in the final product. Residual solvent can lead to a variety of health problems, including serious liver and kidney disorders.
After the oil is extracted, it is refined. Many beneficial components such as vitamin E, lecithin and minerals are lost due to processing[1].
The next step is alkaline treatment. It is carried out to neutralise free fatty acids and remove colour and aromatic components. Although the process improves the appearance of the oil, it also promotes the formation of trans fats. Trans fats are formed as a result of partial hydrogenation of unsaturated fats.
It is reasonable to note that up to 25 per cent of the composition of refined oil can be trans fats. These substances increase the level of LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) in the blood[2], leading to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, strokes and other serious health problems.
Safe production of cedar nut oil
Cedar nut oil differs from refined oils in that it is produced without the use of chemical solvents. Our cedar nut oil is extracted by cold-pressing on wooden presses, which preserves all the beneficial components such as vitamins, minerals, and healthy fatty acids. It is also not oxidised or heated.
It is important to understand the difference not only in the manufacturing processes, but also in the health effects of these oils. Using any refined oil that is high in trans fats is a risk factor for a host of serious diseases, while cedar nut oil, on the other hand, can be a great alternative for maintaining good health.
Remember, your health is directly related to the foods you choose for your diet!
