Cold-Pressed Oil vs Refined Oil: Groundnut, Sesame and Coconut Explained

Walk into any shop and you will see rows of oil. Cold-pressed (also called wood-pressed or chekku) oils are becoming popular again. Here is what they mean.

What is cold-pressed oil?

Seeds or nuts are crushed slowly at low temperature and the oil is filtered. Nothing is added. Refined oils are usually extracted with heat and processed further to give a clear colour and neutral taste.

Key differences

• Aroma and flavour: Cold-pressed oils keep the smell of the seed. Groundnut oil smells of peanuts, sesame oil is rich and nutty.
• Colour: Slightly darker and sometimes cloudy. That is normal.
• Processing: Fewer steps than refined oil.

Which oil for which dish?

• Groundnut oil: everyday Andhra cooking, curries, deep-frying snacks.
• Sesame (nuvvula) oil: pickles, podis, tempering and the traditional oil bath.
• Coconut oil: coastal dishes, stir-fries, and hair care.

Storage tips

Keep oil in a cool, dark place with the lid tight. Cold-pressed oils have a strong aroma and should be used within a few months of opening.

Remember that any oil is still fat. Use in moderation, whichever you choose. Browse our range of cooking oils and ghee.