How Is Cold-Pressed Oil Different From Virgin And Extra Virgin Oils?

Let’s be honest — terms like cold-pressed, virgin, and extra virgin can get confusing. They all sound healthy and premium, but what do they actually mean? And when you’re standing in a store aisle choosing between them, how do you know which one truly deserves a place in your kitchen?

Here’s the thing — all these oils are extracted naturally, but the process, temperature, and type of raw material make a huge difference in their quality, taste, and nutritional value.

What “Cold-Pressed” Really Means

Cold-pressed oils are made using a simple but powerful idea: extract oil without using heat or chemicals. Traditionally, this is done using a Lakdi Ghani or wooden churner, which slowly presses the seeds — groundnut, sesame, coconut, or mustard — at temperatures below 45°C.

Because there’s no heat involved, all the natural antioxidants, Vitamin E, and healthy fats stay intact. You get oil that smells like the seed it came from, tastes earthy, and keeps its nutrients. That’s why at Arkka Oils, we stick to traditional wood pressing methods — they preserve nature’s original quality without shortcuts.

What “Virgin” and “Extra Virgin” Mean

Now, these two terms mostly apply to olive oil, not the kind of oils Indian kitchens use daily. “Virgin” oil means it’s mechanically extracted without chemicals, just like cold-pressed, but at a slightly higher temperature.“Extra virgin” is the highest grade of olive oil — made from the first press, with perfect flavor and minimal acidity. It’s ideal for salads and light cooking, but not for high heat.

So, if you’re comparing cold-pressed groundnut oil with extra virgin olive oil, you’re actually comparing two completely different processes meant for different cuisines. Olive oil is graded by acidity and taste, while Indian cold-pressed oils are defined by temperature and method of extraction.

Why Cold-Pressed Oils Are More Versatile

Cold-pressed oils are deeply rooted in Indian kitchens for a reason. They can handle moderate heat — perfect for sautéing, frying, or adding flavor to traditional dishes.

Groundnut oil adds richness to a poha or stir-fry, sesame oil brings nutty warmth to a tadka, and coconut oil gives a clean flavor to curries. Olive oil, on the other hand, tends to lose nutrients at high temperatures.

Plus, cold-pressed oils are multi-purpose — they’re amazing for hair, skin, and even pet nutrition. The oil’s purity makes it safe and beneficial beyond the kitchen.

Health Benefits That Set Cold-Pressed Oils Apart

Cold-pressed oils retain essential fatty acids and natural plant compounds like polyphenols, which have antioxidant properties. These compounds help improve heart health, reduce inflammation, and boost immunity. Refined or heated oils often lose these compounds during processing, leaving you with nothing but calories and synthetic taste.

At Arkka Oils, every drop of oil is produced without chemicals or heat. It’s slow, yes — but that’s what keeps it real. The natural texture, taste, and aroma aren’t just appealing; they’re proof of purity.

Final Thought

Virgin and extra virgin oils may sound elite, but they’re not always practical for Indian homes. Cold-pressed oils bring the same level of purity — and far more cultural relevance. They suit our food, our traditions, and our bodies better.

So, when you’re choosing oil for your home, think beyond fancy labels. Think local, natural, and nutrient-rich. Think cold-pressed.

Try Arkka’s Cold-Pressed Oils — Groundnut, Sesame, and Coconut — and bring purity back to your plate.

Groundnut Oil - 1 Litre

₹499.00₹349.00

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