High Oleic Sunflower Oil

Sunflower oil, the non-volatile oil obtained from the seeds of the sunflower can be of two common types: linoleic oil and high oleic sunflower oil. In this article we will have a look at the latter. Oil obtained by cold pressing sunflower seeds is called high oleic sunflower oil. This oil is high in oleic acid or monosaturates and is more stable and resistant to rancidity. In fact, the actual percentage of monosaturates in high oleic sunflower oil is above 80%. This trans free oil has neutral taste and is highly stable without hydrogenation. Since the patent for this oil and seed have expired, several companies have plunged their way into producing and marketing this type of sunflower oil.

High in Monounsaturated Fats
Unlike other oils, this oil contains more than 80% monounsaturated fats, with less than 20% of fats as saturated and polyunsaturated fats. Thus, by consuming this oil one is actually taking in more of good fats and less of bad fats.

Lowers Heart Disease Risk
The Mediterranean diet involves high oleic acids. This is why people having this diet are seen to have a lower risk of heart diseases as compared to others consuming different kinds of fats. Consuming this oil helps lower bad cholesterol in the body or LDL and also raises the level of good cholesterol or HDL.

Heals Damaged Skin
High oleic levels in this oil enable it to have the ability to heal old or damaged skin. It has components that can trigger cell regeneration, which is why this oil is good for old and wrinkled skin. Moreover, high oleic sunflower oil can be added to any cream, lotion, etc. where light oil are required, as it gets absorbed easily.

Tastes Better
To tap these benefits, you should just simply drizzle some of it on the salad. This oil makes perfect salad dressings and not only enhances the flavor of the salad, but also keeps the salad fresh longer! Thus, health conscious people need not sacrifice tasty food to keep a check on their weight. Simply cook your food in high oleic sunflower oil.

Longer Shelf Life
In oils with high polyunsaturated content, fatty acids are present which are natural oxidizers and reduce the shelf life of the oil. However, in high oleic sunflower oil the level of polyunsaturated fatty acids is less, due to which it has twice the shelf life of other vegetable cooking oils. Thus, people who are going on trips or camps can take this oil along. Since it doesn't get spoiled easily, one can carry it for long holidays or to places where supplies are not easily available.

Due to all these benefits, the food industry has begun to use it in large amounts. One can also use this oil at home for cooking, frying, baking, etc. It is also used for spray coating cereals, dried fruits and crackers. The application of this oil is the same as olive oil, the difference lying only in the amount of monosaturates and polyunsaturated fats present in both of them.