Introduction
Understanding the Oil Extraction Process
What Is Cold Pressed Oil?
What Is Wood Pressed Oil?
The Key Differences Between the Two
Why Wood Pressed Oils Are Considered More Traditional
Exploring Popular Wood Pressed Oils
Benefits of wood pressed groundnut oil
Benefits of wood pressed mustard oil
Benefits of wood pressed sesame oil
Benefits of wood pressed yellow mustard oil
How to Choose the Right Oil for Your Needs
Conclusion
FAQs
In today’s health-conscious world, the terms cold pressed and wood pressed have become increasingly popular when it comes to cooking oils. But do you know the actual difference between the two? Both are considered healthier alternatives to refined oils, but the extraction technique, nutritional retention, and overall purity can vary. Understanding the difference between cold pressed vs wood pressed oil helps you make an informed decision for your kitchen and well-being.
Oil extraction plays a crucial role in determining its quality and nutritional value. Traditional methods aim to retain the natural flavor, aroma, and nutrients of the seeds, while industrial methods often prioritize yield and shelf life. Both cold pressing and wood pressing use mechanical extraction, but the tools and techniques used make a major difference.
Cold pressed oils are extracted by pressing oilseeds under controlled temperatures—usually below 50°C. The low heat ensures that the oil retains its natural vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids.
Cold pressed oil is produced using a metal expeller machine. While it doesn’t involve chemicals or solvents, the mild friction from the metal components generates slight heat, which can reduce nutrient levels marginally compared to the wood pressed method.
Still, cold pressed oils are far superior to refined oils as they remain pure, unfiltered, and chemical-free.
Wood pressed oil, often referred to as Ghani oil, is extracted using a wooden churner that operates at an even lower temperature than cold pressing. The wooden pestle and mortar system prevents heat buildup and oxidation, helping the oil retain its natural color, aroma, and taste.
Because the process is slower and more labor-intensive, the yield is lower—but the resulting oil is far richer in nutrients and flavor. This makes wood pressed oils the preferred choice for those who prioritize purity and authenticity.
| Aspect | Cold Pressed Oil | Wood Pressed Oil |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment Used | Metal expeller | Wooden churner (Ghani) |
| Heat Generated | Moderate (up to 50°C) | Minimal (below 40°C) |
| Nutrient Retention | High | Very high |
| Taste & Aroma | Mild | Natural and rich |
| Yield | Higher | Lower |
| Cost | Moderate | Slightly higher |
In short, while both are excellent options, wood pressed oils are often considered closer to nature due to their purely traditional extraction method.
Wood pressed oils trace back thousands of years to India’s ancient Ghani method. This slow, gentle process extracts oil without disrupting the natural structure of fatty acids. Unlike metal expellers, wooden churners do not react with the oil or alter its chemical composition.
This is why many Ayurvedic practices recommend using wood pressed oils for cooking, skincare, and even therapeutic applications.
Benefits of wood pressed groundnut oil
Rich in monounsaturated fats and vitamin E, this oil promotes heart health and provides excellent stability for frying and sautéing.
Benefits of wood pressed mustard oil
Known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, mustard oil boosts immunity and supports digestion while adding a robust flavor to Indian dishes.
Benefits of wood pressed sesame oil
Packed with antioxidants like sesamol and sesamin, sesame oil helps reduce cholesterol, improves hair strength, and enhances skin glow.
Benefits of wood pressed yellow mustard oil
This milder variant of mustard oil carries the same health benefits but with a softer aroma—ideal for light cooking or salad dressings.
When selecting between cold pressed and wood pressed oils, consider your needs and cooking style:
For deep frying or high-heat cooking, wood pressed groundnut oil or mustard oil is ideal.
For light cooking or dressings, go with sesame or yellow mustard oil for their subtle flavors.
Always buy from trusted brands that ensure authenticity and avoid mixing or refining.
Check for labels that clearly mention “wood pressed” or “cold pressed” to ensure transparency.
Both cold pressed and wood pressed oils are healthier alternatives to refined oils—but wood pressed oils hold a slight edge in purity, flavor, and nutrient retention. The natural wooden extraction process keeps the oil untainted by heat or metal, delivering authentic goodness to your meals.
Whether you choose wood pressed groundnut oil, wood pressed sesame oil, or other variants, remember—you’re not just choosing an oil, you’re choosing a lifestyle rooted in wellness, tradition, and sustainability.
Q1: What is the main difference between cold pressed and wood pressed oil?
Cold pressed uses a metal expeller, while wood pressed uses a traditional wooden churner, leading to less heat and better nutrient retention.
Q2: Is wood pressed oil better than cold pressed oil?
Yes, it’s more natural and retains slightly higher nutritional value because of the lower temperature during extraction.
Q3: Can wood pressed oils be used for all types of cooking?
Absolutely. They are versatile and suitable for frying, sautéing, and raw consumption.
Q4: Why are wood pressed oils more expensive?
They are produced in smaller batches, with traditional tools, and without chemicals, resulting in higher quality but lower yield.
Q5: How do I store wood pressed oils properly?
Keep them in airtight glass bottles, away from direct sunlight, to maintain freshness for up to 8–12 months.
