Cold Pressed Oils in India: The Complete Guide

Cold Pressed Oils in India: The Complete Guide
What Are Cold Pressed Oils?
Cold pressed oils are extracted from seeds, nuts, or fruits using a traditional method known as wood pressing (in India, called “chekku”, “ghani” or “kolhu”) at low temperatures (under 40°C). This ensures the oil retains its natural aroma, nutrients, and antioxidants, unlike refined oils that are heated and chemically processed.
How Is Cold Pressing Different?
- No heat or chemicals used
- Preserves nutrients and flavor
- Rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants
Top Benefits of Using Cold Pressed Oils
Benefit | Description |
---|---|
Heart Health | Rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that lower bad cholesterol (LDL) |
Better Digestion | No harmful additives or trans fats |
Skin & Hair Care | Acts as a natural moisturizer and nourishes skin and scalp |
Immune Support | Retains vitamins like E, A, and K which support immunity |
Popular Cold Pressed Oils in India
1. Cold Pressed Groundnut Oil
Highly suitable for Indian cooking, including frying and sautéing. Rich in protein and healthy fats.
2. Cold Pressed Coconut Oil
Ideal for cooking, oil pulling, and hair care. It is antibacterial and promotes skin hydration.
3. Cold Pressed Sesame Oil
Used widely in South Indian and Ayurvedic practices. Good for skin massage and high-heat cooking.
4. Cold Pressed Mustard Oil
Has a pungent aroma, used in North Indian and Bengali cuisines. Supports heart health and digestion.
5. Cold Pressed Almond Oil
Perfect for baby massage, face glow, and boosting brain health.
Best Cold Pressed Oil Brands in India (2025)
- Sutrakart – Verified for purity, offers coconut, sesame, and groundnut oil
- 24 Mantra Organic – Trusted for quality and sustainable sourcing
- Avvas Oil – Traditional marachekku oils from Karnataka
- Organic India – Known for clean-label and certified organic oils
- Pure & Sure – USDA-certified organic options
How to Choose the Best Cold Pressed Oil in India
- Check for “cold pressed” or “wood pressed” labels
- Ensure it is non-refined and chemical-free
- Buy from reputable brands or local mills
- Look for lab-tested purity and FSSAI-certified packaging
- Avoid oils that are too clear – natural ones retain some particles
Cold Pressed Oils vs Refined Oils
Parameter | Cold Pressed Oils | Refined Oils |
---|---|---|
Extraction Method | Wood/Stone Pressed | Heat and Solvent Extraction |
Nutritional Value | High (retains vitamins & antioxidants) | Low (most nutrients lost) |
Shelf Life | Shorter | Longer due to preservatives |
Health Impact | Supports health | May increase inflammation |
Uses of Cold Pressed Oils in Daily Life
- Cooking: Frying, sautéing, seasoning
- Skincare: Moisturizing, treating dryness, anti-aging
- Haircare: Nourishing scalp, preventing dandruff
- Ayurveda: Abhyanga (massage), oil pulling, detox rituals
Image Alt Tags
- Image 1: Cold pressed coconut oil in a glass jar with coconut – alt: Pure cold pressed coconut oil in India
- Image 2: Traditional wooden chekku oil mill – alt: Traditional wooden press for extracting oil in India
- Image 3: Bottles of Sutrakart’s cold pressed groundnut and sesame oil – alt: Sutrakart cold pressed oil bottles
- Image 4: Comparison chart of refined vs cold pressed oil – alt: Cold pressed vs refined oils chart
FAQs About Cold Pressed Oils in India
Q1. Are cold pressed oils safe for deep frying?
Yes. Oils like groundnut, sesame, and mustard have a high smoke point and are suitable for Indian-style frying.
Q2. How to store cold pressed oils?
Store in a cool, dark place in a glass or stainless steel container. Avoid plastic and exposure to sunlight.
Q3. Are cold pressed oils suitable for babies?
Yes, oils like almond and coconut are excellent for baby massage and cooking, provided they’re pure and organic.
Q4. Where to buy cold pressed oils in India?
You can buy online on Sutrakart or visit trusted local stores. Always verify the source and certifications.
In conclusion, cold pressed oils in India are more than just a healthy trend—they’re a return to our traditional roots. Whether you’re looking to cook healthier meals or enhance your wellness routine, switching to cold pressed oils can be one of the most impactful decisions.
👉 Ready to switch to real, lab-tested cold pressed oils?
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