Edible vs. Non-Edible Oils: What Sets Them Apart?
We all use oil every single day. Some of us apply it to our hair, some use it for joint pain relief, and most of us use it for tadkas or shallow frying our favourite dishes. But how often do we stop and ask what kind of oil this is? Or is this oil safe to consume, or is it meant for something else entirely?
In Indian homes, oil is more than just a kitchen ingredient. It's a part of family recipes, age-old remedies, and even household hacks. Yet, we rarely pause to consider what type of oil we're using and what it's actually meant for. That's where the confusion between edible and non-edible oils begins.
In this article, we simplify the difference between edible and non-edible oils, their use, and, most importantly, what sets them apart.
What is Edible Oil?
Edible oils are what we use in our kitchens and on our plates. They are safe to consume, extracted from seeds, nuts, or fruits, and refined to meet food-grade standards. Whether you are adding tadka to your dals and sabzis, deep-frying festive snacks, or dressing a salad, edible oils are used for cooking purposes.
What are the Types of Edible Oils Used for Cooking?
The following are the most common types of edible oils found in Indian kitchens:
Soyabean Oil: Soyabean oil has a light and neutral flavour. It is ideal for everyday cooking and deep frying.
Sunflower Oil: This oil is rich in Vitamin E and is often used for baking, sauteing and light frying.
Mustard Oil: Mustard oil has a bold taste and has antibacterial properties. It is rich in omega-3 and is added to pickles and curries.
Groundnut Oil: It is mildly nutty in flavour and is high in healthy fats. It is widely used for deep frying and cooking traditional South Indian dishes.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is a light and heart-friendly oil used for salad dressings, light sauteing, or Mediterranean-style cooking.
What are the Health Benefits of Edible Oils?
Apart from adding taste and texture to our meals, edible oils also have a positive impact on our health. The following are the health benefits of edible oils:
Support Heart Health: Oils like soyabean, sunflower, olive, and groundnut are rich in unsaturated fats that help manage cholesterol levels and promote a healthy heart.
Boost Immunity: Mustard and coconut oil have natural antibacterial and antifungal properties, which help strengthen the body's defence system.
Improve Digestion: Certain natural oils aid in smoother digestion and support gut health. Kachi ghani soyabean oil, mustard and sesame oil are known for their digestive benefits.
Nourish Skin and Hair: Edible oils like coconut and olive oil are packed with Vitamin E and essential fatty acids that keep your skin supple and hair nourished when used externally.
Rich in Antioxidants: Most edible oils contain antioxidants that protect the body from free radicals, reduce inflammation, and support cellular health.
What are Non-Edible Oils?
Non-edible oils are oils that are not safe for human consumption. These are extracted from various seeds, nuts, or plants. However, they are either toxic, too harsh for the digestive system, or processed in a way that makes them unsuitable for eating. While they don't belong in your kitchen, they play a major role in industries, households, and even personal care and cosmetic routines.
What are the Types of Non-Edible Oils?
The following are the types and applications of non-edible oils:
Neem Oil: Widely used in agriculture as a natural pesticide and in skincare for its antibacterial properties.
Castor Oil (industrial grade): Often used as a lubricant, in paints, and for manufacturing soaps and cosmetics.
Turpentine Oil: This oil is commonly used in paints, varnishes, and as a solvent in industrial applications.
Karanja Oil: Known for its insecticidal and medicinal properties, it is used in soaps, creams, and pest control.
Mahua Oil (non-edible form): Mahua oil is used in lighting lamps, manufacturing detergents, and herbal applications.
What is the Difference between Edible and Non-Edible Oil?
While both edible and non-edible oils are derived from natural sources, their composition, uses, and processing vary significantly. Here's a breakdown of edible vs non-edible oils:
| Comparison Factor | Edible Oils | Non-Edible Oils |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose of Use | Meant for human consumption, primarily used in cooking, baking, and food preparation. Carefully processed to meet food safety standards. | Intended for industrial, agricultural or cosmetic use. Not suitable for consumption - used in manufacturing, pest control, or as lubricants. |
| Processing | Undergo refining, cold pressing, or filtering to ensure safety. Production focuses on retaining nutritional value and taste. | Undergo heavy processing like distillation or chemical treatments. May contain impurities making them unsafe for food use. |
| Nutritional Content | Contain essential fatty acids (Omega-3, Omega-6), vitamins (Vitamin E), and antioxidants that promote health benefits. | Generally lack nutritional value. Processed for specific functional purposes rather than human health. |
| Health Impact | Support healthy digestion, skin, heart and hair when used in moderation. Some provide anti-inflammatory benefits. | May cause harmful health effects if ingested. Can be toxic or irritating to the digestive system. |
Choose the Right Oil For Your Needs
To conclude, we all know that oils serve multiple purposes. But knowing which oil is meant for what use makes all the difference. Edible oils are made to nourish and protect our health, while non-edible oils serve important roles outside the kitchen. Understanding the difference helps you make informed choices, avoid confusion and cook safer.
If you are looking for quality edible oil, you can trust Sadabahar Oil is the best edible oil supplier in India. We manufacture edible oils that are pure, safe, and packed with goodness.
