Top Cooking Oils

Cold-Pressed vs. Refined Oils: What Actually Matters Short answer: Cold-pressed (unrefined) oils deliver bigger flavor and more of the plant’s natural compounds; refined (RBD) oils are cleaner-tasting, more heat-tolerant, and last longer. Use both—just match the oil to the job. Cold-pressed preserves flavor with minimal processing; refining removes odors/color and raises heat tolerance. The quick take (read this first) Cold-pressed / unrefined : vivid flavor; best for dressings, dips, finishing, and low–medium heat. Refined (RBD) : neutral taste, higher smoke points , longer shelf life; best for stir-fry, searing, and deep-frying. For everyday health, favor unsaturated oils (olive, avocado, canola, sesame, safflower/sunflower). Use saturated fats less often. Feature Cold-Pressed / Unrefined Flavor-forward Refined (RBD) High-heat How it’s made Mechanical pressing; minimal processing; filtered/cen...