What Are Cold-Pressed Oils?
Cold-pressed oils are extracted by pressing oil seeds at low temperatures (typically below 49°C or 120°F), without the use of chemicals or high heat. This method preserves the oil’s natural flavor, aroma, and nutritional content such as antioxidants, vitamins, and polyunsaturated fats.
According to Dr. Ritika Samaddar, Regional Head of Dietetics at Max Healthcare, “Cold-pressed oils retain most of their natural nutrients and are free from harmful chemical residues—making them a healthier alternative for daily cooking” (Source: The Times of India).
1. Health-Conscious Consumers Are Driving the Change
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly shifted consumer focus toward preventive health, fueling a desire for natural, unprocessed food items. Oils—being a daily staple—became a key category where buyers started making more informed choices.
A report by Grand View Research states that the global cold-pressed oil market size was valued at USD 24.62 billion in 2022, and it is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.7% from 2023 to 2030.
Cold-pressed oils like groundnut, mustard, sesame, and coconut are rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health, cholesterol management, and even inflammation reduction.
2. Retained Nutritional Value and Antioxidants
Unlike refined oils that undergo degumming, bleaching, and deodorizing, cold-pressed oils keep their natural vitamins (like E and K), omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants intact.
For example:
- Cold-pressed sunflower oil is rich in Vitamin E, an antioxidant that supports skin health.
- Cold-pressed sesame oil contains sesamol and sesamin, known for their anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties.
Harvard Health Publishing notes that unsaturated fats, like those found in cold-pressed oils, can help reduce the risk of heart disease when used in place of saturated fats or trans fats.
3. A Push Towards Sustainable and Chemical-Free Choices
Modern consumers are not only concerned about their own health, but also the health of the planet. Cold-pressed oil production typically uses minimal energy and chemicals, making it a more environmentally friendly alternative.
In fact, many small-scale producers use traditional wooden ghani (presses) or slow-grinding mills, which generate less heat and waste during production.
According to the Sustainable Agriculture Initiative Platform, sustainable extraction practices like cold-pressing are key to reducing the carbon footprint of food processing.
4. Culinary and Cultural Resurgence
Cold-pressed oils bring back the aroma, taste, and color of oils used in traditional cooking. For chefs and home cooks alike, this enhances the authenticity of regional cuisines.
Chef Ranveer Brar, in an interview with NDTV Food, emphasized, “The difference in taste when you use a cold-pressed oil—especially mustard or sesame—is immense. It adds a layer of depth and nostalgia to Indian dishes.”
These oils are also being embraced in salad dressings, marinades, cold dishes, and even smoothies, due to their raw flavor and natural texture.
5. Growing Availability and Consumer Awareness
Previously, cold-pressed oils were limited to organic or health-focused stores. Now, they are widely available across online platforms, supermarkets, and even farmer’s markets, making them more accessible than ever.
With labels like “unrefined,” “chemical-free,” and “organic,” brands are marketing these oils as premium, health-forward products. Influencer marketing, food bloggers, and health coaches are also playing a vital role in educating the public about their benefits.
A Nielsen report confirms that over 45% of urban Indian consumers prefer natural and unprocessed oils for their everyday cooking.
Challenges and Considerations
While cold-pressed oils have their merits, they are also more expensive than refined alternatives due to:
- Lower yield from seeds
- Slower extraction process
- Shorter shelf life
Moreover, since they are not exposed to high heat during production, cold-pressed oils can degrade faster when stored improperly or used for high-temperature cooking like deep frying.
Conclusion: A Lasting Trend, Not a Passing Fad
The rising popularity of cold-pressed oils is more than a wellness craze—it’s a reflection of an evolving global food culture that values authenticity, nutrition, and sustainability. With growing consumer education, regulatory support, and brand innovation, the cold-pressed oil market is poised for sustained growth.
Whether you’re a health-conscious individual or a chef seeking deeper flavor, cold-pressed oils offer a simple yet powerful way to reconnect with food in its purest form.
