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cooking_oils

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This page last changed 2025.02.11 06:24 visits: 4 times today, 0 time yesterday, and 137 total times

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Comparison of Cooking Oils

Oil Type Main Source Saturated Fat Monounsaturated Fat Polyunsaturated Fat Smoke Point Best Uses Health Considerations
Olive Oil (Extra Virgin) Olives Low (~14%) High (~73%) Moderate (~11%) ~375°F (191°C) Salads, sautéing, dipping High in antioxidants & heart-healthy fats
Coconut Oil Coconut meat Very High (~82%) Low (~6%) Very low (~2%) ~350°F (177°C) Baking, frying, adding flavor High in saturated fat; may raise cholesterol
Canola Oil Rapeseeds Low (~7%) High (~63%) Moderate (~28%) ~400°F (204°C) High-heat cooking, baking Good omega-3 balance; often highly processed
Sunflower Oil Sunflower seeds Low (~10%) Low (~20%) High (~66%) ~450°F (232°C) Frying, roasting, high-heat cooking High in omega-6, may cause inflammation if overused
Sesame Oil Sesame seeds Low (~14%) Moderate (~39%) Moderate (~41%) ~410°F (210°C) Stir-frying, marinades, dressings Contains antioxidants; distinct nutty flavor
Palm Oil Palm fruit High (~50%) Moderate (~37%) Low (~9%) ~450°F (232°C) Frying, processed foods High in saturated fat; environmental concerns
Avocado Oil Avocado pulp Low (~12%) Very High (~70%) Moderate (~13%) ~520°F (271°C) High-heat cooking, grilling, roasting Heart-healthy; rich in vitamin E
Peanut Oil Peanuts Moderate (~17%) High (~48%) Moderate (~34%) ~450°F (232°C) Frying, Asian cuisine High in monounsaturated fats; may cause allergies
Soybean Oil Soybeans Low (~15%) Low (~24%) High (~61%) ~450°F (232°C) Frying, processed foods Rich in omega-6, may promote inflammation

Key Takeaways

  • Best for heart health: Olive oil, avocado oil, canola oil (high in monounsaturated fats).
  • Best for high-heat cooking: Avocado oil, sunflower oil, peanut oil, palm oil (high smoke points).
  • Best for flavor: Sesame oil, coconut oil, peanut oil (distinct flavors for specific cuisines).
  • Most controversial: Palm oil (environmental issues), coconut oil (high saturated fat).
  • Should be used in moderation: Soybean oil, sunflower oil (high in omega-6, which may promote inflammation).
cooking_oils.1739283841.txt.gz · Last modified: 2025.02.11 09:24 by Steve Isenberg