The best and worst cooking oils

Olive oil It is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, particularly in extra virgin form. Olive oil offers benefits like reduced inflammation and improved heart health.

Best Cooking Oils

Avocado oil High in monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, and antioxidants, with a high smoke point suitable for various cooking methods and often used in dressings and marinades.

Coconut oil Controversial due to its saturated fat content, it does offer benefits like weight loss and heart health due to its unique fatty acid profile and potential anti-inflammatory properties.

Canola oil Low in saturated fat, high in monounsaturated fat and omega-3s, making it heart-healthy and versatile for cooking with a neutral flavour and high smoke point.

Grapeseed oil Rich in polyunsaturated fats and antioxidants, with a high smoke point making it great for frying and searing, and a neutral flavour suitable for different dishes.

Palm oil High in saturated fat linked to heart disease risk, and its production can lead to environmental issues like deforestation.

Worst Cooking Oils

Cottonseed oil Often refined and containing trans fats, which are harmful to heart health and best avoided due to processing methods.

Hydrogenated oils Industrially processed with trans fats, contributing to heart disease risk and not recommended for cooking.

Soybean oil Despite its polyunsaturated fat content, heavy processing can lead to trans fats and nutrient loss, making it less healthy.

Corn oil High in omega-6 fatty acids that can promote inflammation when consumed excessively, posing risks for chronic diseases despite its cooking versatility.

10 cooling drinks that you can carry anywhere

Learn more