The Journey of a Cold Pressed Oil: From Seed to Bottle
The Journey of a Cold Pressed Oil: From Seed to Bottle
Introduction: Nature in Its Purest Liquid Form
Cold pressed oils are more than just a cooking medium—they’re a legacy of natural wellness, untouched by industrial processing. Ever wondered what makes them so pure, aromatic, and nutrient-rich? Let's take a step-by-step look at the fascinating journey of a cold pressed oil, right from selecting the seed to bottling the final golden liquid.
Step 1: Choosing the Right Seeds
The quality of oil starts with the quality of the seed. Only fresh, chemical-free, and naturally dried seeds are selected. These may include groundnuts, coconuts, sesame seeds, mustard, sunflower, and more. The seeds must be:
- Non-GMO and pesticide-free
- Fully matured and sun-dried
- Free from mold, moisture, or artificial polish
Step 2: Cleaning and Drying
Seeds are thoroughly cleaned to remove any stones, dust, or debris. Then they’re sun-dried again to reduce moisture content, which helps:
- Extend the shelf life of the oil
- Ensure better yield during pressing
- Preserve nutrients by avoiding heat drying
Step 3: Cold Pressing (The Traditional Way)
This is where the magic happens. Cold pressing involves slow, mechanical extraction of oil without using heat or chemicals. The seeds are placed in either:
🔸 Stainless Steel Press (Modern Cold Press)
- Low-speed rotating screw crushes the seeds
- Temperature kept under 45°C
- Clean and efficient, suitable for mass production
🔸 Wooden Chekku/Ghani (Traditional Cold Press)
- Seeds crushed in a wooden mortar using a stone pestle
- Slow rotation (10–15 RPM)
- Minimal heat from friction
- Oil drips slowly, preserving enzymes and antioxidants
Step 4: Natural Sedimentation and Filtration
Once the oil is extracted, it’s allowed to sit undisturbed in stainless steel containers for 2–3 days. This process is called sedimentation. During this time:
- Fine particles settle at the bottom
- No need for artificial filtration or refining
After this, the oil is filtered through a simple cloth or mesh to remove any residual solids. No bleaching, deodorizing, or chemical agents are used.
Step 5: Bottling with Care
Once filtered, the oil is poured into food-grade containers. For best quality and eco-friendliness, many brands (like SutraKart) use:
- Amber or transparent glass bottles
- Eco-safe BPA-free plastic bottles for large sizes
- Sealed caps to prevent oxidation
Bottling is done in small batches to preserve freshness.
Step 6: Storage and Distribution
The freshly bottled oils are stored in cool, dark areas away from sunlight and heat. Since cold pressed oils are not refined, they:
- Have a shorter shelf life (6–12 months)
- May settle or appear cloudy—this is natural
Timely distribution ensures customers receive fresh oil without losing flavor or nutrition.
Cold Pressed Oils vs Refined Oils: Why This Journey Matters
Unlike refined oils—which go through chemical processing, high heat, and deodorization—cold pressed oils retain:
- Essential fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6
- Fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K
- Natural antioxidants and phytonutrients
This traditional, slow journey ensures you get a bottle of unadulterated goodness that supports immunity, heart health, digestion, and skin care.
Behind the Scenes at SutraKart: How We Do It
At SutraKart, we follow an ethical seed-to-bottle approach. Our oils are:
- Extracted in small wooden mills (chekku)
- Made from locally sourced organic seeds
- Unrefined, unbleached, and unfiltered
We document every batch with care—from sun-dried seeds to oil bottles delivered at your doorstep.
Conclusion: A Process Worth Preserving
Cold pressed oil production is not just a process—it’s a philosophy of respecting food and nature. Understanding this journey helps you appreciate the purity behind every drop you use in your kitchen.
Ready to Taste the Purity?
Explore our full range of 100% natural wooden cold pressed oils made with love and tradition.
