Ingredient
Expeller pressed oil
What is Expeller pressed oil?
Expeller pressed oil is a type of vegetable oil extracted by applying mechanical pressure using a machine known as an expeller. This process is physical and does not involve chemical solvents like hexane, which are often used in conventional oil extraction.
Expeller pressed oils can be derived from various seeds and nuts, including soybean, sunflower, and canola. It is used in food products for cooking and as an ingredient because it retains more of the natural flavor of the original seed or nut. While this method is considered more natural, the healthiness of the oil depends significantly on the source. For example, oils high in omega-6 fatty acids, such as sunflower oil, can contribute to an imbalance in fatty acid intake.
When seeing expeller pressed oil on a label, it's crucial to identify the source of the oil, as the health impact can vary. Despite the extraction method being more natural, oils like sunflower and soybean oil are still high in omega-6 fatty acids, which may promote inflammation when consumed in excess.
Commonly found in: Snack foods, Baked goods, Cooking oil, Salad dressings, Processed foods
What to watch
- High in omega-6 fatty acids, which may disrupt the balance of omega-3 to omega-6 in the diet.
Benefits
- Does not use chemical solvents in the extraction process, making it a more natural choice.
Expeller pressed oils derived from commonly consumed seeds are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA.
Research indicates high consumption of certain oils like sunflower or soybean may lead to inflammation due to omega-6 fatty acids, but the natural extraction process is seen as positive.
Being plant-derived, expeller pressed oils align with vegan dietary preferences.
Sources: Food Labeling; Notification Procedures for Statements on Dietary Supplements
Scout's take
Expeller pressed oil includes sunflower, safflower, and/or canola oil, which are high in omega-6 fatty acids. These oils are considered unhealthy due to their potential to promote inflammation when consumed in excess. The processing method is less harmful than chemical extraction but does not mitigate the health concerns associated with seed oils.
The case against
High omega-6 content may promote inflammation and contribute to an imbalance in the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio.
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