Here's Why You Should Be Cooking With Avocado Oil
If you've been using olive oil as your go-to cooking oil for all occasions — you might want to think again. While everyone's flavor preferences are different, it's important to know the smoke point of the oil that you're cooking with to keep your food free from toxins. The smoke point of an oil is the temperature at which the oil begins to chemically break down and release smoke (via Chosen Foods). Once oil begins to smoke, it emits cell-damaging free radicals into whatever you're cooking, according to The Health Sciences Academy.
Other cooking oils, such as olive oil and coconut oil, have lower smoke points, making them suitable for lower-heat cooking. Olive oil can smoke and burn at 375 degrees, while coconut oil smokes between 350 and 400 degrees (via The Washington Post). But avocado oil boasts the highest temperature smoke point at 482 degrees, meaning that it's safer to use it for high-heat cooking (via Healthline). So, when you're frying, sautéing, or even baking, it's important to consider the temperature you're cooking at to keep your dish safe from harmful free radicals.
Cooking with avocado oil has plenty more health benefits
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture: Consumption of avocados has tripled since 2001 to eight pounds per person in 2018. It's no wonder that more people are open to adding the flavor avocado oil to their dishes. After learning the health benefits, you'll likely want to pick some up for yourself on your next grocery run.
Avocado oil boasts high levels of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, making it an extremely healthy option (via Time). These types of fatty acids help the body absorb important nutrients like antioxidants and carotenoids (via Healthline). Avocado oil also contains high amounts of lutein, a carotenoid that functions as an antioxidant that benefits your eyes. And, if you're looking to lower your cholesterol and improve heart health, avocado oil can help with that, too, per Healthline.
Still need convincing? We didn't think so. Avocado oil helps keep your cooking safe while adding a creamy, light flavor. Combined with its plethora of health benefits, this cooking oil deserves a place in your pantry and a spot on your next dish.