Health and Wellness

Oil and Fat Smoking Point Guide

According to the American Oil Chemists’ Society a smoking point of an oil or fat is the temperature at which, under specific and defined conditions, an oil begins to produce a continuous bluish smoke that becomes clearly visible. When this happens the fats start to break down. Thus releasing free radicals and toxins that can be harmful to you called “acrolein.” (That is that nasty burnt taste you’ve might experienced after burning dinner that one night. Thank goodness for pizza delivery!)

On a recent blog post we discussed the dangers of cooking with Extra Virgin Olive Oil and the importance of using a low smoke point oil and/or fat. Since then we’ve been asked on occasion which are the best to use. The hugest factor depends on the oil’s smoking point. Without knowing this factor finding a healthy oil can be daunting. Smoking points are so important! So, we’ve created the perfect Oil and Fat Smoking Point Guide based on temperatures for your reference.

We hope you find this information helpful. Here at EarthNutri we don’t know you, but we consider you and your health very important to us — like you’re a part of our family. Please visit our other blogs for more great informative information on health and living life to the fullest!

Cooking with Extra Virgin Olive Oil Can Be Dangerous To Your Health

Cooking with extra virgin olive oil can be dangerous

We have always been told that Olive Oil was the best and healthiest oil to use. After all, it’s high in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants that are able to lower “bad” cholesterol and raise “good” cholesterol levels. It also has the Omega oils that you need for a healthy nervous system and cardiovascular system. But did you know that cooking extra virgin olive oil at high heats can be dangerous?

Cooking with Extra Virgin Olive Oil Can Be Dangerous

Every oil or fat that you cook with has a smoking point. When oils reach temperatures over that smoking point it releases toxic smoke that also have carcinogenic (cancer causing) properties. This is because it causes it’s enzymes to be destroyed, proteins become carcinogenic, carbohydrates become caramelized and all of the vitamins and minerals lose their nutrients.

Safe Ways to Use Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Try using EVOO drizzled over vegetables for roasting or pan-frying. Blend it with your hummus or sauces for a smooth, delicious flavor with great health benefits!

If you do decide to cook with EVOO be sure to not cook over 320º. If you do, be sure to choose a lighter, more refined olive oil with a higher smoke point. That way you can still benefit from all of the healthy benefits it has.

Sources

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