Today we are going to clear up all your doubts.
Mainly, oils can be classified into two main groups: cold-pressed oils obtained by mechanical processes and refined oils obtained by chemical processes. In the first group we can find the most natural oils since no chemicals are used to obtain them. That is to say, they are not subjected to any treatment other than washing, decanting, centrifugation or filtration. In this group are the well-known virgin and extra virgin oils.
But what is the difference between them?
It is very easy, extra virgin oils are the ones with the best quality because they are free of organoleptic defects and their nutritional properties remain intact. This results in a product with extraordinary benefits and an intense flavor. On the other hand, virgin quality oil would have somewhat less quality as it would not reach the level of excellence mentioned above, although it is still rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. Oils such as olive, avocado, almond, walnut and hazelnut are usually cold pressed to maintain all their unique properties and flavor.
However, refined oils are processed by chemical treatments that eliminate organoleptic defects and allow them to become a food fit for human consumption. These processes usually eliminate color, flavor, odor and impurities, resulting in an oil that is practically harmless. Some examples would be sunflower, palm, corn, canola or safflower oil.
“Half of Spaniards consume refined oil”.
Thus, refined oil is cheaper than virgin or extra virgin oil, which is why more than 50% of the Spanish population consumes this type of oil.
Thus, we can see that there are several types of oils with extra virgin, virgin and refined qualities.
Did you know the differences between the types of oils?