Difference between Refined, Expeller Pressed and Cold Pressed Coconut Oil

Today there are a lot of varieties of Coconut Oil on the store shelf, trying to figure out
what type to purchase can quickly become quite confusing. What are the differences
between the different varieties available? What type of coconut oil yields the greatest
health benefits?

Refined Coconut Oil vs. Unrefined Coconut Oil

Refined (Commercial Grade) Coconut Oil is both tasteless and odourless. It is the
most processed coconut oil on the store shelf. It goes through a pretty intensive
process that deodorizes and bleaches the oil. Sometimes Refined Coconut Oil is
hydrogenated or partially-hydrogenated, which results in the creation of trans-fats.

Unrefined Coconut Oil has a richer flavour than Refined Coconut Oil. The oil is
minimally processed, which results in an oil that has a much higher nutrient content
(proteins, vitamins and anti-oxidants).

The Winner? Unrefined Coconut Oil

Expeller-Pressed Coconut Oil vs. Cold-Pressed Coconut Oil

Expeller-Pressed Coconut Oil involves squeezing the coconut oil out of the coconut
meat in a screw-like machine. The pressure and friction in the expeller can lead to
temperatures of around 99°C. At this temperature there are some, albeit minimal,
nutrients lost.

Cold-Pressed Coconut Oil involves pressing the coconut milk out of the coconut
meat at low temperatures, usually below 60°C. By utilizing this method the greatest
amount of nutrients are preserved.

The Winner? It’s a close one but Cold-Pressed Coconut Oil wins.

Virgin Coconut Oil vs. Extra Virgin Coconut Oil

Surprisingly, according to Tropical Traditions, “there is no official classification or
difference between ‘virgin’ and ‘extra virgin’ as there is in the olive oil industry, since