What you need to know about the dangers of seed oils

Seed oils, also known as vegetable oils, are commonly used in cooking and food processing. They are derived from various plant sources, including soybeans, corn, canola, and sunflowers. While these oils are often marketed as a healthier alternative to animal fats, recent research has raised concerns about their safety and potential health risks.

The primary concern with seed oils is their high content of omega-6 fatty acids. Omega-6 fatty acids are essential fatty acids that are necessary for normal growth and development, but they can also contribute to inflammation in the body when consumed in excess. Seed oils are often heavily processed, which can increase their omega-6 content and alter their chemical structure.

In addition to their high omega-6 content, seed oils also contain high levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). PUFAs are unstable and can easily become oxidized when exposed to heat, light, and air. This oxidation can produce harmful free radicals, which can contribute to inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.

Research has linked the consumption of seed oils to a variety of health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. A 2019 study found that people who consumed high levels of seed oils had a 16% higher risk of premature death compared to those who consumed lower levels.

Seed oils may also contribute to gut health issues. A 2020 study found that consuming high levels of seed oils was associated with changes in gut bacteria that are linked to inflammation and inflammatory bowel disease.

How It's Made Seed Oil 

1: Cleaning and Preparation

The first step in making seed oil is cleaning and preparing the seeds. The seeds are cleaned to remove any impurities, such as dirt and debris, that may affect the quality of the oil. The seeds are then dried and conditioned to remove any excess moisture that may cause the oil to spoil.

Step 2: Crushing and Grinding

Once the seeds are cleaned and prepared, they are crushed or ground into a paste using a mechanical press or a chemical solvent. Mechanical pressing is the traditional method of oil extraction, which involves crushing the seeds to release the oil. On the other hand, chemical extraction uses solvents such as hexane to dissolve the oil in the seed.

Step 3: Separation

After crushing or grinding, the paste is then heated to separate the oil from the solid matter. This process is called separation or clarification. In mechanical pressing, the paste is placed on a press and pressure is applied to extract the oil. In chemical extraction, the solvent is evaporated to separate the oil from the solvent.

Step 4: Refining

Once the oil is extracted, it undergoes refining to remove any impurities, such as free fatty acids, phospholipids, and pigments. Refining also helps to improve the shelf life and stability of the oil. The oil is typically heated and treated with an acid or an alkaline solution to remove impurities.

Step 5: Deodorization

The final step in making seed oil is deodorization. Deodorization is the process of removing any odor or taste that may be present in the oil. This is done by heating the oil at high temperatures and passing steam through it. This process removes any volatile compounds that may cause an odor or taste in the oil.

Seed oils are made through a complex process that involves cleaning, crushing, separation, refining, and deodorization. The method used to extract the oil may vary depending on the type of seed and the intended use of the oil. It's important to note that some seed oils are cold-pressed, meaning they are extracted without the use of heat or chemical solvents, and are considered to be more natural and healthier than other types of seed oils.

So, what are some healthier alternatives to seed oils? One option is to use oils that are high in monounsaturated fats, such as olive oil, avocado oil, or macadamia nut oil. These oils are more stable and less likely to oxidize when exposed to heat. Coconut oil is another option that is high in saturated fat and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.

In conclusion, while seed oils may be a common ingredient in many processed foods, it is important to be aware of their potential health risks. Consuming excessive amounts of seed oils can contribute to inflammation, oxidative stress, and a variety of chronic health problems. By opting for healthier oil alternatives, we can support our overall health and well-being.

Seed oil can be found in a wide range of products, including but not limited to:

Cooking oils (e.g. sunflower oil, sesame oil, hemp seed oil, pumpkin seed oil)

Salad dressings and marinades

Skincare and beauty products (e.g. facial oils, body lotions, lip balms)

Hair care products (e.g. shampoos, conditioners, hair masks)

Supplements (e.g. fish oil supplements, flaxseed oil supplements)

Cleaning products (e.g. furniture polish, wood cleaner)

Processed and frozen foods (e.g. frozen pizza, chips/crisps, frozen fries)