The Truth about Canola Oil - Is it good or bad for us?
Here are some facts –
Firstly, As consumers we have been lead to believe that there is a wonderful new plant out there that is the answer to all our oil questions and fears – the “Canola Plant”. There is no such thing as a Canola Plant. Canola Oil is genetically modified Rapeseed Oil. Rapeseed oil is used as an industrial oil for its superior lubricating qualities. Rapeseed Oil contains high levels of erucic acid – which is toxic to humans. The genetically modified version of this plant supposedly contains much lower levels – thereby making it safe for human consumption. This genetically modified version is what we call Canola Oil.
Canola oil is the brainchild of the Canadian government (hence its name – Canola Oil) and was pushed before the US market desperate for a new “healthy” oil. The Canadian Government reportedly paid US$ 50M to have the Oil approved by the FDA (US Food and Drug Administration) as safe for human consumption.
It is hard to know where and what Canola Oil is or where comes from as nothing is stated on labels – simply “Canola Oil” which really means nothing.
The use of Canola Oil has never been tested on humans. Tests done in animals have not been promising. For instance, there are indications that canola is not healthy for the cardiovascular system, having caused lesions of the heart and vitamin E deficiency in rats. And ironically, one of the primary virtues that makes canola so appealing - the omega-3 fatty acid content - may in fact be the source of a primary problem.
Omega-3 fatty acids become rancid during the heat-intensive processing of canola oil, (up to 300 deg) creating an unpleasant odour. We worry about the odour but what about the fact the acids become rancid! The deodorisation process turns a large amount of canolas omega-3 into trans fatty acids.
The Canadian government says the trans content of canola is 0.2 per cent, but a University of Florida (US) study in the found trans contents as high as 4.6 per cent. This problem is even greater in processed foods where the hydrogenation process sends the trans fat content soaring to as much as 40 per cent.
What I believe –
At the end of the day, canola oil is still a genetically modified plant - it is simply not natural. We are unsure of its lasting effects on the body as there have been no human tests conducted and the tests on animals are not promising.
At then end of the day, you can’t beat cold-pressed natural oils – such as Olive. The olives are squashed and then its bottled. Similar to the cold-pressed oils we use in our skincare – cold pressed oils contain the highest levels of nutrients available to us. There is no heating, deodorization process, or questions about possible toxicity. Even with butter – we know exactly where it comes from and what the ingredients are.
I always use Extra Virgin Oils such as olive, peanut and sesame to cook with – Organic and Australian if possible. I support a local industry and know exactly what I am eating.
At least now you too can make an informed choice for the health and wellbeing of you and your family.
Cara Phillips
Founder – Carmajé Organic skincare
For more information you can visit –
http://jimmysmithtraining.com/six-pack-diet/danger-in-the-kitchenis-canola-oil-bad-for-you/
http://www.thehealthierlife.co.uk/natural-health-articles/nutrition/is-canola-oil-safe-00349.html
