For decades, refined oils like sunflower, soybean, and canola quietly found a place in our kitchens — sleek bottles, long shelf lives, and no visible taste. But more Indians, especially in urban and semi-urban homes, are waking up to the hidden costs of these “convenient” oils.

Nutritionists across the country are advocating a return to roots — to oils that our grandparents trusted. And one of the top choices? Cold-pressed groundnut oil.

Extracted naturally without heat or harsh chemicals, this wood-pressed oil is rich in healthy fats, antioxidants, and flavor. Let’s explore why it’s becoming the go-to cooking oil for modern Indian kitchens.

1. Why Groundnut Oil Is Making a Comeback

Groundnut oil — also called peanut oil — is extracted from peanuts using traditional wooden kolhus or cold-press machines. Unlike refined oils, which are bleached, deodorized, and processed with hexane, cold-pressed oils retain most of their original nutrients and flavors.

Nutritional Highlights of Groundnut Oil:

• Monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) – Linked to lower risk of heart disease Source: Healthline
• Vitamin E – A powerful antioxidant that supports skin, hair, and immune health Source: WebMD
• Phytosterols – Help reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol levels
• Omega-6 fatty acids – Essential for brain function and growth

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2. Groundnut Oil vs Refined Oil

Factor	Cold-Pressed Groundnut Oil	Refined Oil (e.g., Soybean, etc.)
Processing Method	Wood-Pressed or Cold-Pressed (no chemicals)	Chemically refined, often with solvents
Nutrient Retention	High	Low – most nutrients lost during processing
Free from Additives	Yes	Usually contains preservatives or anti-foaming agents
Smoke Point	High (~232°C) – Ideal for Indian cooking	Varies (may degrade faster at high heat)
Flavour & Aroma	Nutty, authentic, complements Indian dishes	Odourless and tasteless

Cold-pressed oil vs refined oil in India is not just a nutrition debate — it’s a lifestyle shift.

3. Why Nutritionists Are Saying No to Refined Oils

India is seeing a surge in chronic lifestyle diseases — obesity, PCOS, diabetes, and heart conditions. And hidden behind the “refined” label are oils that do more harm than good, say health experts.

Here’s why many top dietitians are encouraging a switch to cold-pressed groundnut oil:

Expert-Backed Benefits:

• Anti-inflammatory properties: It’s packed with antioxidants and plant compounds. Source: Medical News Today
• Supports weight management: MUFAs help regulate fat metabolism and satiety.
• Heart health hero: Groundnut oil may reduce LDL cholesterol and improve HDL. Source: Healthline
• Safe for high-heat cooking: With a smoke point of ~232°C, it’s perfect for deep-frying and tadkas.
• Gut-friendly for all ages: Easily digestible and less likely to cause acidity.

“Refined oils are like fast fashion — cheap, quick, and harmful in the long run. Cold-pressed oils are the future of clean eating.”
— Nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar [Source: Public Statements & Interviews]

4. Is Groundnut Oil Suitable for Daily Indian Cooking?

Absolutely. Whether you’re making masala dosas or aloo parathas, groundnut oil fits right in.

Best for:

• Frying pakoras, pooris, and samosas
• Sautéing bhindi, baingan, and other sabzis
• Tempering dals and curries
• Baking traditional Indian sweets like mohanthal or ladoos

Its slightly nutty flavour adds richness without overpowering masalas — a balance that’s hard to find in refined oils.

5. How to Choose the Right Groundnut Oil

Not all oils that claim to be “cold-pressed” are created equal. Here’s what to watch for:

• Look for ‘Cold-Pressed’ or ‘Wood-Pressed’ on the label
• Ask for lab test reports to verify purity and free-from-adulteration claims
• Opt for trusted, traceable brands like Originally Desi — directly sourcing from farmers
• Avoid plastic bottles — go for glass or tin packaging to preserve quality

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6. Groundnut Oil and Ayurveda: A Forgotten Treasure

Groundnut oil isn’t just a modern wellness trend — it has deep roots in Ayurveda.

According to Ayurvedic texts, groundnut oil is:

• Snigdha (unctuous): Nourishes internal tissues.
• Ushna (warming): Helps balance Vata and Kapha doshas.
• Balya (strength-giving): Promotes muscle and bone strength.

Before the influx of refined oils, most Indian homes — especially in Gujarat and Maharashtra — used groundnut oil daily. And Ayurveda confirms that the body responds better to traditional, unprocessed fats.

Say Goodbye to Refined Oils

The shift from refined to cold-pressed oils isn’t just a trend — it’s a return to our culinary roots and a step toward long-term health. With benefits for the heart, metabolism, immunity, and even digestion, cold-pressed groundnut oil deserves a permanent place in your kitchen.

By making this switch, you choose:

• Cleaner, chemical-free meals
• Stronger immunity and heart health
• Safer cooking oil for kids and seniors
• Flavours that feel like home

Shop Groundnut Oil the Way Nature Intended

• 100% Wood-Pressed
• Farm-Sourced and Traceable
• No Chemicals or Preservatives

Explore Groundnut Oil at Originally Desi