What is the Difference Between Refined and Filtered Oil?
Whether you are at home or in the office, most of us think about one thing: "Aaj khaane mein kya hai?" Food is comfort. It starts conversations, lifts our mood after a long day, and we always look forward to it. And no matter how simple or fancy the meal is, there's usually something crunchy or fried on the plate. Because let's be honest, we can't really do without samosas, pakoras, and pooris with aamras.
While we may not give up these favourites, we can make small changes to enjoy them in a healthier way. One of the simplest yet most impactful changes is choosing the right cooking oil. Nowadays, many options are available—refined oil, filtered oil, and cold-pressed oil—each claiming to be heart-healthy, pure, light, and safe. But how do you know which one truly lives up to these claims?
If you're looking for high-quality refined oil, trusted refined oil suppliers like Sadabahar Oil ensure that your everyday cooking is not just delicious but also safe and nutritious. Their oils undergo stringent purification processes while retaining essential nutrients, making them a smart choice for Indian kitchens.
In this blog, we will help you understand the key differences between refined oil vs. filtered oil, so you can pick the ideal one for your family’s health—without compromising on taste or tradition. Stay tuned!
What is Filtered Cooking Oil?
Filtered oil is a cooking oil that goes through minimal processing. After the oil is extracted from seeds or nuts, it's passed through a basic filter to remove solid particles. However, it's not exposed to high heat or chemicals like refined oils. This means the oil retains most of its natural flavour, aroma, and nutrients.
Filtered oils are usually darker and have a stronger smell than refined oils. They are often used in traditional cooking and are preferred by those who want to stay close to natural ingredients.
Some of the common types of filtered oil used in cooking are:
Mustard oil: It is strong in taste and is used widely in the eastern and northern parts of India
Groundnut (peanut) oil: Peanut oil is popular in western and southern states for everyday cooking
Sesame oil (til oil): Common in South Indian and Ayurvedic cooking
Coconut oil: Used in coastal regions, especially in Kerala kitchens
What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Filtered Oil?
Advantages:
Naturally Nutritious: Minimal processing helps filtered oils retain natural nutrients like vitamin E, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants.
No Chemicals: These oils are not exposed to harsh chemicals or high heat during production.
Rich Aroma and Taste: They bring a distinct flavour that enhances traditional Indian cooking.
Supports Heart Health (in moderation): Oils like groundnut and sesame oil are rich in monounsaturated fats that help support heart health.
Traditional Choice: Filtered oil has been trusted in Indian homes for generations, especially for making pickles, tadkas, and everyday sabzis.
Disadvantages:
Lower Shelf Life: Because they are not chemically preserved, filtered oils spoil quickly and need careful storage.
Strong Flavour: The intense aroma and taste may not suit all dishes or personal preferences.
Not Ideal for Deep Frying: Many filtered oils have a lower smoke point, which makes them less suitable for high-temperature cooking.
Can Look Cloudy: The natural thickness or cloudiness might seem unfamiliar compared to the clear appearance of refined oil.
Limited Availability: Depending on the region, some filtered oils may not be as easily available in supermarkets.
What is Refined Cooking Oil?
Refined oil is a cooking oil that undergoes multiple processing stages. After extraction, it is treated with chemicals and exposed to high heat to remove impurities, odours, and colours. This process gives it a light texture, neutral taste, and clear appearance. Hence, refined cooking oils are popular in Indian kitchens.
The refining process also increases shelf life and makes the oil more suitable for high-temperature cooking, like deep frying. These oils are usually odourless and colourless, making them a versatile option for various cooking styles.
Some of the common types of refined oils used in cooking are:
Refined soyabean oil: Light and widely used in Indian households
Refined sunflower oil: Known for its mild flavour and high smoke point
Refined rice bran oil: This oil is preferred as it is heart-friendly
Refined palm oil: Often used in commercial cooking due to its stability and cost-effectiveness
What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Refined Oil?
Advantages:
Neutral Taste and Smell: Refined oils blend well into dishes without altering their flavour. They are ideal for everyday cooking.
High Smoke Point: It is suitable for deep frying and sauteing as it remains stable at high temperatures, reducing the risk of harmful compounds forming.
Light and Easy to Digest: Oils like refined soyabean and mustard are often perceived as lighter on the stomach when used in moderation.
Heart-Friendly Options: Refined soyabean oil is a good source of polyunsaturated fats (PUFAs), which may help support heart health when used in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Longer Shelf Life: Less risk of spoilage makes them convenient for long-term use.
Easily Available and Economical: Found in all stores in various pack sizes, often at competitive prices.
Disadvantages:
Loss of Nutrients: High heat and chemical processing reduce the oil’s natural vitamins and antioxidants.
May Contain Additives: Refining involves deodorisers, preservatives, or anti-foaming agents in some variants.
Less Natural: They undergo more processing steps, so they retain less of the original qualities of the seed or nut they come from.
Not all Refined oils are Equal: Some low-quality refined oils may use poor processing standards. Always check for FSSAI approval and trusted brands.
Which Oil is Healthier: Refined or Filtered?
While filtered oils are closer to nature, refined oils like soyabean oil are better suited for modern Indian cooking. They are processed to remove impurities, have a longer shelf life, and are stable at high temperatures, making them a safer option for everyday frying and cooking.
Refined soyabean oil's fat profile makes it a healthier choice. It contains a good balance of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and omega-3 fats, which are essential for health. Its health benefits are:
Supports heart health by helping manage cholesterol levels
Boosts brain and nerve function thanks to omega-3 fatty acids
Improves nutrient absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K
Easy to digest and light on the stomach, even when used daily
So, if you want something healthy, versatile, and reliable for your family, refined soyabean oil is a better choice.
Why Choose Sadabhar's Refined Soyabean Oil Amongst Others?
Sadabahar’s refined soyabean oil isn’t just another cooking oil; it’s a thoughtful choice for Indian homes. While some refined oils raise concerns about over-processing or nutrient loss, as the best refined soyabean oil supplier in India, we ensure purity, quality, and health benefits in every drop.
It’s FSSAI-certified and manufactured under strict quality standards.
The oil is purified through multi-stage refining processes but retains essential fatty acids like omega-3 and PUFA.
It is neutral in taste, light on the stomach, and has a high smoke point.
No pungent smell, no overpowering flavour
Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs
1. Is filtered oil better than refined oil?
Filtered oil is less processed and may retain some natural nutrients, but it isn’t always suitable for high-heat cooking. Refined oil is better for regular use as it is more stable, lighter, and safer for everyday frying and cooking.
2. Which oil is better for frying: refined or filtered?
Refined oil is better for frying. It has a higher smoke point, meaning it can handle heat without breaking down or releasing harmful compounds.
