Peanut oil is a type of vegetable oil that is derived from peanuts. It is often used in cooking because it has a mild flavor and a high smoke point. Peanut oil is available in both refined and unrefined forms.
The difference between refined and unrefined peanut oil is that the unrefined variety has not been processed. It contains all of the nutrients and antioxidants that are found in peanuts. Refined peanut oil is lower in these nutrients, but it is also less likely to spoil.
In this blog post, we will discuss the difference between refined and unrefined peanut oil, and the benefits of using unrefined peanut oil in your cooking.
Table of Contents
Origin of Refined and Unrefined Peanut Oil
The refined and unrefined forms of peanut oil have different origins. The refined form is derived from raw peanuts that have been processed to remove the hull and shell. The unrefined form is made from roasted peanuts.
The refined form of peanut oil is extracted using a process called solvent extraction. This involves the use of a solvent such as hexane to extract the oil from the peanuts. The refined oil is then filtered and purified to remove any traces of the solvent.
The unrefined form of peanut oil is extracted by pressing roasted peanuts. The oil that is extracted is then filtered to remove any impurities.
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How Do Both Oils Differ in Taste and Color?
Refined peanut oil has a milder, more delicate flavor than unrefined peanut oil. Unrefined peanut oil is earthier and has a nuttier taste.
Refined peanut oil is also lighter in color than unrefined peanut oil. Unrefined peanut oil has a darker, more golden hue. The unrefined oil gets the golden color from being roasted.
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Use of Refined and Unrefined Peanut Oil in Cooking
Refined peanut oil is the better choice for cooking because of its high smoke point. Unrefined peanut oil is not as heat-stable and can spoil quickly when exposed to high temperatures.
Refined peanut oil has a milder flavor than unrefined peanut oil, so it is a good choice for dishes where you want the flavor of peanuts to be subtle. Refined peanut oil is a good choice for cooking dishes that require moderate or high heat. It can be used in sautéing, frying, and baking.
Unrefined peanut oil has a nuttier taste and is better suited for dishes that require a strong peanut flavor. It can be used in dressings, sauces, salads, and other low heat or no heat dishes.
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Refined or Unrefined Peanut Oil- Which One Is Healthier?
The health benefits of refined peanut oil include:
- Decreased risk of heart disease
- Decreased bad cholesterol levels
- Improved blood sugar levels
The health benefits of unrefined peanut oil include:
- Increased antioxidant levels
- Increased nutrient levels
- Improved blood cholesterol levels
- improved brain function.
However, the unrefined variety has a higher nutrient content and antioxidants than the refined variety. Again, an unrefined form of peanut oil is the healthier choice when it comes to allergies because it has been processed to remove the allergens in peanut oil.
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Affordability of Refined and Unrefined Peanut Oil
Refined peanut oil is more affordable than unrefined peanut oil. The refined variety is less expensive because the process of extraction is simpler and does not involve the use of a solvent.
The unrefined form of peanut oil is more expensive because it involves the use of roasted peanuts. The process of pressing roasted peanuts is more labor-intensive and takes longer.
LEARN MORE: Roasted Peanut Oil Vs Peanut Oil
Health Risks of Using Refined and Unrefined Peanut Oil
Though unrefined peanut oil has a higher nutrient and antioxidant content than refined peanut oil, it also comes with some health risks.
The main health risk of using unrefined peanut oil is that it can cause allergic reactions in people with peanut allergies as it is not processed to remove toxins and allergens.
Another health risk of unrefined peanut oil is that it may contain harmful toxins. These toxins can be harmful to your health and may increase your risk of cancer.
But refined peanut oil does not have these risks when used in cooking or any other way.
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Storage of Refined and Unrefined Peanut Oil
Refined peanut oil should be stored in a cool, dark place. It has a shelf life of up to two years.
Unrefined peanut oil should also be stored in a cool, dark place. However, it has a shorter shelf life of around six months.
Which One Should You Use?
If you are looking for a peanut oil that has a milder flavor and is more heat-stable, then you should buy refined peanut oil.
If you are looking for a peanut oil that has a stronger flavor and contains more nutrients, then you should buy unrefined peanut oil.
Both refined and unrefined forms of peanut oil are healthy choices for your cooking needs. However, the unrefined variety is the healthier option. So, if you are looking for health-boosting cooking oil, then go with unrefined peanut oil.
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Conclusion
Which peanut oil you choose is ultimately a matter of personal preference. If you are looking for an all-purpose oil that can be used in both high and low-heat cooking, refined peanut oil is the best choice.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your dishes with extra nutrients, unrefined peanut oil is a good option.
However, it is important to keep in mind the health risks associated with using unrefined peanut oil. When it comes to allergies and toxins, refined peanut oil is a safer choice.
