Differences between coconut oil & virgin coconut oil at HB ?

This post is specifically for all of you who have always wondered what the difference is between the cold pressed and virgin coconut oils we sell. 

Extraction method

This is where the main difference lies between cold-pressed and virgin coconut oil, its extraction method.

Cold pressed coconut oil is extracted from copra or dried coconut kernel, usually after drying coconuts in the sun. Like the name suggests, the coconuts are pressed to extract the oil and is ready for use and consumption.

However virgin coconut oil is extracted from the fresh coconut milk and left to settle down. The fresh coconut is first finely grated and then passed through a machine to extract the coconut milk. 

The milk is kept aside for a day to separate after which it forms three individual layers.

They are the upper curd layer, middle oil layer, and bottom-most water layer. The extracted oil is then removed and left to settle. It lets the moisture in the mixture evaporate to give pure coconut oil.

Appearance and composition

Both cold-pressed and virgin coconut oils look similar and have the same energy content. A tablespoon of any coconut oil contains about 117 calories and 13.6g of fat where 11.8grams are saturated fats. 

Most of the coconut oil fats are medium-chain triglycerides your body uses as energy, but dont increase the risks of cardiovascular disease. Both oils contain medium-chain triglycerides, good cholesterol and almost negligible amounts of trans fatty acids(they dont undergo any hydrogenation)

Though both normal and virgin coconut oil look similar, the former one may have a bit more colour.

Health Benefits

Virgin coconut oil is said to be healthier than cold pressed coconut oil.  Its because, like in any other food processing methods, the heat used to dry copra could reduce the antioxidant content in cold pressed coconut oils.

It means virgin coconut oil contains more antioxidants and essential vitamins than cold-pressed coconut oil.

Taste and aroma

Virgin coconut oil has a more pronounced, tropical coconut aroma and flavour when compared to cold-pressed coconut oil. 

Usage

These coconut oils are stable and able to hold high temperature than many other cold-pressed plant oils, making it a great choice for cooking. It delivers an exotic taste and great texture to foods. 

They can be used in a broad spectrum of ways. Its apt for sautéing, roasting and frying. People also use it to swap for butter in making baked products which promotes the rich aroma and flavour of the dishes.

But like every food item, the general advice is to  consume them in moderation.

Virgin coconut oil due to the way its extracted, is of superlative quality..great for skin and hair health too. 

Cost

Virgin coconut oil is a more expensive option, which isnt surprising. You need more coconuts to get 1 lt. of the oil when compared to cold pressed coconut oil.  

So, mainly the differences are seen in its extraction, taste, aroma, antioxidant retension and cost.

Pick either virgin coconut oil or cold pressed coconut oil as per what suits you for use -  both are safe, healthy for consumption.

Anyday theyre much better than going for ones that go through heat-pressing, refining, decolourization, bleaching, hydrogenation and deodorisation.